While this is the last piece in a series, my intention is for it to read more like the opening of a new book on family medicine, rather than an ending to a story about the specialty.
April Lockley, DO, represents a new generation of family physicians who began their careers in the 21st century, and she is hopeful that the experiences of practicing family medicine and being the patient of a family physician will change in several ways.
Among her desires for the future, is to be able to write a prescription for a medication or physical therapy to a patient who is able “to fill the prescription without having to worry about the financial implications of paying for it,” she writes. She also hopes “patients can seek out care without the fear of discrimination or racism through an increasingly diverse work force.”
In her article, Dr. Lockley both expresses how she wants family medicine to change and what she already finds satisfying about being a family physician.
I hope you enjoyed reading about the professional journeys of Dr. Lockley and other family physicians who have written commentaries or interviewed for articles in Family Practice News’ 50th Anniversary series this year.
To revisit any of these articles, go to the 50th Anniversary bucket on mdedge.com/familymedicine.
Thank you for continuing to read Family Practice News, and I hope to celebrate more milestones with you in the future.