As physicians, we make hundreds of decisions every day. Each is influenced by an intention, whether we are aware of it or not. Sadly, when we don’t communicate this, we leave a powerful tool untapped, resulting in a less focused … Continue reading
If you’ve visited a doctor recently, it’s likely that you’ve felt unseen and unheard. Sadly, “healthcare” is often dictated more by corporate requirements and a focus on the bottom line than by creating a healing interaction between doctors and patients. … Continue reading
Last week I had the opportunity to speak about communication to a large group of family physicians. Given that primary care doctors are pushed to see patients in ridiculously short visits, I titled my talk, “Communication Skills to Make a … Continue reading
Today is National Doctor’s Day. Who knew? In 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed the law designating March 30th national Doctor’s Day. Historically, the appropriate gift for a doctor was a red carnation. Ironically, the red carnation is a Spanish … Continue reading
On a recent trip, I volunteered to help with physicals for some aspiring baseball players. Part of the evaluation was asking each person if he used smokeless tobacco, an unfortunately common habit among baseball players. Surprisingly, a good number acknowledged they did. … Continue reading
Today was one of those days when I knew why I went into medicine. Among my new patients were two with complicated medical histories. One was treated by a physician and improved. But a second physician emphatically told her she should never have had the … Continue reading
An internist recently shared a story about an elderly couple – both were her patients. One day, the woman remarked, “I love you, because you tell me what you think.” The doctor was flattered that her style was appreciated. She felt … Continue reading
