"Finally, and perhaps most importantly, recognize that ordering tests and performing procedures is no substitute for treating people with dignity, for understanding their station in life and meeting them accordingly. The smallest of interventions, but one that has the potential to be the most consequential. And one, I’m afraid, that may be our only hope."
Amen. This reminds me of something I think applies to medical care these days-
This is an incredibly well written and important article. Dr. Pendyal is exactly what medicine needs and all to rarely offers. My late father was chief of Medicine at a major teaching hospital in Boston, he used to say " with medical care, you can either make money or treat sick people, but not both". Sadly our society has opted for the former.
Why should the practice of medicine be different than any other 21st century vocation? Doing important things requires a willingness to cut across the grain, expend the energy. This is the way that it has always been. What makes the 21st century more difficult, however, is the ever growing layers of bureaucracy that must be placated and supported by the folks who actually develop or provide the treatments, services, and goods that we require.
Treating people with dignity and respect, actually taking the time to listen and understand where they are coming from, incorporating all the aspects of their life that affect their health are so important to helping everyone stay as healthy as they can, given their circumstances. And I think prevention, when possible, is way better than any cure will be.
"Finally, and perhaps most importantly, recognize that ordering tests and performing procedures is no substitute for treating people with dignity, for understanding their station in life and meeting them accordingly. The smallest of interventions, but one that has the potential to be the most consequential. And one, I’m afraid, that may be our only hope."
Amen. This reminds me of something I think applies to medical care these days-
"Don't do something, just stand there!"
This is an incredibly well written and important article. Dr. Pendyal is exactly what medicine needs and all to rarely offers. My late father was chief of Medicine at a major teaching hospital in Boston, he used to say " with medical care, you can either make money or treat sick people, but not both". Sadly our society has opted for the former.
Why should the practice of medicine be different than any other 21st century vocation? Doing important things requires a willingness to cut across the grain, expend the energy. This is the way that it has always been. What makes the 21st century more difficult, however, is the ever growing layers of bureaucracy that must be placated and supported by the folks who actually develop or provide the treatments, services, and goods that we require.
Treating people with dignity and respect, actually taking the time to listen and understand where they are coming from, incorporating all the aspects of their life that affect their health are so important to helping everyone stay as healthy as they can, given their circumstances. And I think prevention, when possible, is way better than any cure will be.