In the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, Hill said, it became clear families should develop a communication plan for getting in touch with each other in an emergency and should create an emergency supply kit and store it in a safe, dry place.

The kit should include a list of important family health information and documents, advised Hill, such as copies of family immunization and health records, a list of prescriptions and dosages, and the style and serial number of medical devices such as pacemakers. "When possible," said Hill, "your medical records should be kept electronically on a disc or USB drive. If this is not possible, people should have their medical records in a convenient and portable form. Katrina was definitely a wake-up call to everyone."

Medicare has taken an important step forward by offering a prescription drug benefit
for the first time, Hill said. The AMA encourages those in Medicare or with loved ones
in Medicare to educate themselves about the new benefit, which went into effect January 1.

Families, Hill said, should take time to review the most applicable prescription drug options for the Medicare-eligible patient.

In light of general concerns over the flu and specific worries about avian flu, Americans should remain informed and take common-sense steps to stay healthy, advised Hill. Everyone, he said, can take sensible steps to prepare for the flu season--and those steps may help protect against pandemic flu as well.

Typically, influenza does not peak in the United States until February, so it is worthwhile to check with one's physician about the annual flu vaccine. To avoid germs that cause the flu, Hill said, people should wash their hands frequently, avoid touching their nose or mouth with their hands, and, if they are sick, cover coughs with a tissue or sleeve.

With so many Americans concerned about being overweight or obese, the AMA suggests it is more important than ever to make lifestyle choices known to enhance quality of life. These include daily exercise, a well-balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco and excessive drinking.

In addition, Hill pointed out patients who manage their chronic conditions help themselves and others. "Good patient compliance helps reduce health care costs and helps reduce concerns about individuals with chronic conditions," Hill said. "It is often lack of care that drives up cost and eventually overloads the health care work force."

As always, the AMA recommends one consult with one's physician before beginning any new exercise program.

"These resolutions are simply a few of the things you can do to make positive, healthy lifestyle changes," said Hill. He directed people to the AMA Web site (http://www.ama-assn.org) for a wide range of public health information. "And without question, you should continue to turn to your physician to provide the highest quality of care for you and your family," said Hill in his statement.