212Degrees----Are We All There Yet?

212 Degrees---Are we there yet?

Bob Blumm, MA, PA-C, DFAAPA

Last year I read a book published by Simple Truths called 212 degrees, a simple concept. The reality of this book explained the difference that 1 degree of effort would produce in the lives of those who practiced the concept. I am sure that it is the goal of every advanced practice clinician to become the best that they can for their patients as well as for their self edification. This philosophy always requires effort, additional training, going to conferences or simply reading from significant sources that define evidenced based concepts that change outcomes and create a better prognosis.
This year I have heard the comments of some clinicians who feel that they have no need to spend funds to go to yet another conference and I have umbrage with this manner of thinking. Everyone needs continuing education; even the most scholarly among us including the world recognized experts in their fields. Everyone needs to hear the comments of others to either defend their manner of approach or be challenged to make changes that may create a better practitioner. None of us live in a vacuum although some think they do and others wish that they did. I am delighted that so many of our organizations have recognized the need for this manner of training and transferring knowledge although it is costly to the organization, creates challenges for the staff and has a price tag for the attendee. There are many new opportunities and conferences listed in the journals that we receive from all of the sources that write for PAs and NPs. Look for an upcoming conference and make a decision to attend and then to leave at 212 degrees.

If you're not familiar, here's the idea:
At 211 degrees...water is hot.
At 212 degrees...it boils.
And with boiling water, comes steam.
And steam can power a locomotive.
And, it's that one extra degree that...
Makes all the difference.

So many times, in business and in life, it's that one extra degree of effort that separates the good from the great.

What I love about the 212° idea is that you can use it to fit your own needs. It may be 212° service that you'd like to reinforce, or 212° attitude, leadership, or quality. Or maybe, you'll choose to build your entire culture around the 212° concept...to differentiate you from your competition.

The real beauty of 212° is the simplicity of the idea. Once explained...everybody gets it. And once you get it...it's hard to forget! I hope to see you at one of these events and I hope that you look into the philosophy of 212 degrees and make it your personal goal in your practice, your service to humanity and your personal life.