Google Translate in Medicine (video)

"Conversation Mode" is a new interface for Android Phones within Google Translate that’s optimized to allow you to communicate with a nearby person in another language.

In conversation mode, simply press the microphone for your language and start speaking. Google Translate will translate your speech and read the translation out loud. Your conversation partner can then respond in their language, and you’ll hear the translation spoken back to you. See an example below.

Google Translate in Medicine from Graham Walker on Vimeo.

References:
A new look for Google Translate for Android
Conversation Mode in Google Translate for Android

Free iPhone medical translation app sets a new standard, MediBabble Translator app review. iMedicalApps, 2011.

U.S. May Face Shortage of 150,000 Doctors in 15 Years

As ranks of insured patients expand, the U.S. may face shortage of 150,000 doctors in 15 years, according to the WSJ. That shortfall is predicted despite a push by teaching hospitals and medical schools to boost the number of U.S. doctors, which now totals about 954,000.

The greatest demand will be for primary-care physicians. These general practitioners, internists, family physicians and pediatricians will have a larger role under the new law, coordinating care for each patient.

Comments from Twitter:

@doctorwes Foreign docs are lining up.

@jmphillips Once I get into medical school, I should be OK!

@ddrullinsky ok Dr. Dimov, I'm on my way to help! thanks for posting my tweet! I hope to be there next year! Great blog BTW!

@a_singledrop but # of US residency spots remains flat. Why's this ok?

@drsteventucker I'm still not moving back!

References:
U.S. Faces Shortage of Doctors - WSJ.com.

Image source: sxc.hu

UK GPs' income fell for the second year in a row in 2007-2008

Income before tax for the average GP was £100 324 (Euro 110 000; $150 000) before tax. This represents a fall of more than £3000 on 2006-2007, and £6000 on the peak year, 2005-2006, when the new contract came into force.

Expenses have risen and gross earnings have remained much the same, squeezing the net income GP principals earned from their practices.

References:

GPs' income fell for the second year in a row in 2007-8. BMJ.

Image source: Openclipart.org, public domain.