Alexandra Tien | Source | Family physician at Medical Associates of Rhode Island

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Alexandra Tien

Family physician at Medical Associates of Rhode Island
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Alexandra Tien is a board-certified family physician, in practice for the last two decades. Given her background, she is highly interested in health care policy, and has written numerous commentaries on the topic over the years.

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  • U.S. Faces Critical Shortage of Primary Care Physicians
    Alexandra confirms a U.S. doctor shortage, particularly in primary care, due to low pay and regulatory frustrations. This impacts patients with undesirable insurance, limiting their physician options. "No short-term solutions" exist, but long-term strategies include free medical schools for primary care commitments and equal pay for PCPs and specialists.
  • Antibiotic Stewardship: When Are Antibiotics Truly Necessary?
    Dr. Tien emphasizes that antibiotics treat bacterial, not viral infections like the flu or cold. "Supportive care is key for viral illnesses." Antibiotic stewardship is crucial to prevent resistance. Bacterial infections like pneumonia and strep throat require antibiotics, often penicillins. Alternatives exist for those with allergies. Understanding when antibiotics are appropriate helps maintain their effectiveness.
  • US Healthcare Crisis: Primary Care Physician Calls for System Overhaul
    Dr. Tien highlights inefficiencies, citing low pay for primary care doctors and administrative burdens. She advocates for equal pay with specialists, eliminating middlemen, and a public single-payer plan. Alexandra suggests subsidizing medical education, capping malpractice awards, and negotiating pharmaceutical rates to reduce costs and improve care access. "The cost of health care in the US is the highest in the world."