Posts Tagged "Patient Care"

Managing Patients with Big Shot Syndrome

By Faith A. Coleman, MD - September 13, 2018

Self-restraint is one of the most-practiced and valuable skills in my repertoire. I stood in the exam room with her, hands in the pockets of my white coat. I was expressionless and silent while she ranted. I did not, (almost-irresistibly) tell her that this was not the behavior of a woman who was ready for motherhood.

Managing Patients with Big Shot Syndrome

Where Does the Patient Fit in the Medical System?

By Jack Isler, MD - May 1, 2018

After I retired and moved to another town, I was still a physician, but no longer had easy access to the medical system. I had the full experience of what everyone else goes through: picking up the phone and attempting to make an appointment with a physician.

Where Does the Patient Fit in the Medical System?

The Patient Centered Medical Home: Can You Afford to Pay the Rent?

By Michelle Boucher - November 9, 2017

My nose wriggled as it often does when I smell something unusual, but with all this talk about Patient Centered Medical Homes (PCMH), I wanted to explore the concept and do some investigating of my

The Patient Centered Medical Home: Can You Afford to Pay the Rent?

How to Deal With Social Issues in the Medical Setting

By Nora Ekeanya D.O. - September 14, 2017

In my short career I’ve learned that, to excel as a physician, you have to do more than be able to regurgitate information. Be an example of comprehensive understanding, cohesion, and humility.

How to deal with social issues in the medical setting

Are Your Affairs in Order?

By Mitchel Schwindt, MD - June 15, 2017

Delivering horrible news never gets easier. The physician pauses with a tense hand on the door, takes a deep breath, and enters the patient's room. A room full of hope and anticipation is displaced abruptly with fear and sadness. The diagnosis now revealed, and the patient and family step back in disbelief. We will do everything we can to help you beat this but recommend that you get your affairs in order...

Doctor means "to teach"

By Jack Isler, MD - May 16, 2017

When I think back to the original meaning of the word “doctor,” I believe we may have lost our way in the physician/patient interaction. The word “doctor” originates from a Latin word, meaning to teach. As a physician and educator, I can’t remember the last time I went to the doctor and was taught something. Prior to starting medical school, I spent 6 months in the hospital and rehab, rebuilding my body from a construction accident. This situation was very painful and debilitating, but it provided me with the patient’s perspective to illness. It is from this perspective that all physicians need to originate. By teaching, you not only strive to treat, but you strive for the best outcome.