Insurers consult the programs as they advise physicians on whether procedures like tonsilectomies and the removal of adenoids would qualify for reimbursement.

She advises physicians, "If a patient lies about his medical problems and turns out to be a drug abuser, at least you've documented that you were acting in good faith."

In 1971, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advised physicians to stop prescribing DES because it was linked to a rare vaginal cancer.

The author Bull advised physicians: "After removal of wax, inspect thoroughly to make sure none remains.

He advises hospitals, physicians, and health systems on Medicare and Medicaid compliance.

Consor is a medical device specialist for St. Jude's Medical where for 14 years, he has advised physicians as they learn how to incorporate new technology into their surgeries.

"I also advise physicians on the methods of traditional healers," he said.

He said sales of ticlid, the stroke-preventive, had been especially slow because the drug carried a warning that it might lower patients' white blood cell count, and advised physicians to try ordinary aspirin first.

The case managers, who usually are psychiatric social workers or nurse clinical specialists, advise physicians about alternatives to hospitalization, which may cost $4,000 per patient.

Advising physicians that levofloxacin: "...should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria...."