The true essence of our opioid crisis has been inaccurately characterized, as it does not stem from the use of medical opioids or any supply-related factors. Rather, it emerges from the underlying social factors influencing health. These factors have led to a growing sense of despair among significant segments of…
Join Sarah Samaan, a retired cardiologist and physician development coach. Discover how burnout is a response to workplace stress, not a personal flaw, and how it relates to grief and compassion. Gain valuable insights into distinguishing burnout from compassion fatigue, navigating systemic challenges, and practicing self-compassion. Explore actionable strategies to…
Join Andrea Wadley, a pediatrician who navigated career burnout to embrace the direct primary care (DPC) model. Discover how DPC transformed her practice, offering personalized care, shorter wait times, and improved doctor-patient relationships. Andrea's journey sheds light on how DPC can revitalize both a physician's career and patient care. Andrea…
The practice of medicine and surgery encompasses much more than mere theoretical knowledge. While technical skills serve as the foundation, they are just the starting point. Proficiency, safety, and competence are imperative, yet orchestrating a patient's secure journey to the operating room involves much more. This entails adeptly managing a…
Join Mara Buchbinder, a medical anthropologist, and explore the pressing issue of clinician burnout within the health care system. Delve into the shortcomings of conventional mental health approaches and the potential of an occupational health lens to uncover underlying causes. Discover practical solutions that prioritize psychosocial safety and organizational well-being,…
We delve into urologist William Lynes' emotional journey as a physician grappling with burnout and the weight of medical decisions. A distressing note triggers introspection, unraveling the hidden turmoil of a healer. Join us to explore the intersection of duty and personal battles in the world of medicine. William Lynes…
What I've learned is that when I pause amidst the whirlwind of my day to genuinely listen to a patient – to absorb their stories and share their struggles – something magical unfolds. A few words of gratitude, a heartfelt thank-you, possess the incredible power to transform a challenging day…
We join hematologist Toyosi Onwuemene who shares her transformative journey from clinician to scientist. A decade ago, she faced obstacles trying to build a research career without support, funding, or training. Now, she sheds light on the common struggles many physicians face when balancing clinical responsibilities and research aspirations. We…
Join Wendy L. Hunter, a pediatrician, as she shares a powerful story about a teenage girl found alone, having a seizure outside her clinic's front door. This incident prompted Wendy to explore trauma-informed care in her practice. Discover how Wendy's clinic implemented changes, such as using risk-scoring tools and community…
Join clinical psychologist Lisa Miller and neurosurgeon Philip E. Stieg as he discusses how the human brain is hard-wired for connection and the neuroprotective effects of spirituality. Discover practical ways to cultivate a sense of community, enhance mental health, and find joy in reconnecting with nature. Lisa Miller is a…
In the past year, a noteworthy shift has emerged in the conversations I've engaged in. Unlike any other time, I've witnessed individuals proactively reaching out, expressing their desire to explore alternative paths. In my initial discussions, I make it a priority to delve deep and uncover the underlying sources of…
Time rushes past us, an undeniable truth that leads us all toward a common conclusion. In the closing chapter of this journey, the words of poet Hartzell Wilson resound, underscoring the significance of how we invest each passing day. Every day we allocate is a fragment of our existence, a…
Join Maria Iliakova, a bariatric and general surgeon, as she shares her challenging yet transformative journey through surgical residency, where she faced overwhelming pressures and doubts. Discover how she found solace and fulfillment in the operating room, making surgery her favorite thing to do. Gain valuable insights into the world…
Join Kim Downey, a physical therapist, and Michael Hersh, a gastroenterologist, and discover how coaching can help physicians navigate challenges, change their lives, and find personal and professional growth. Don't miss their insights on finding the right coach, the impact of thoughts on feelings, and the benefits of supplementary materials.…
Envision dedicated doctors, yet consider the subtle impact of empathy, medical training, and rushed appointments. These elements erect a barrier, eroding the empathy essential for quality care and human connection. As empathy diminishes, so does the essence of compassionate medical practice, undermining both standards and the doctor-patient bond. #EmpathyInMedicine #RushedAppointments…
Step into the world of vascular medicine, where I came across a puzzling scenario that raised questions about clinician motivations. The head of my HMO asked me to review a physician's case records due to an unusual surge in bilateral venous ablation procedures. Among approximately 30 to 35 cases, nearly…
Join Erkeda DeRouen, a family physician, as we delve into the recent remake of The Little Mermaid. Discover how this Disney film led Erkeda on a journey to explore the inspiring story of Howard Ashman, his battle with HIV during the AIDS epidemic, and the lessons we can learn from…
Ever heard the saying that the best physicians might be destined for hell? It stems from the Hebrew Bible, suggesting that exceptional doctors' pride often hinders them from seeking or accepting help. This pride can lead to both missed opportunities for learning and potential failure in patient care. It's a…
Embark on the cutting edge of blood pressure innovation as cuffless devices prepare to transform primary care. Patients armed with these devices could pose both communication challenges and unanticipated insights, with blood pressure readings cropping up during the most unexpected activities. While promising wider monitoring access, the uncharted nature of…
Join patient advocate Richard A. Lawhern as he challenges prevailing myths surrounding the opioid crisis. With insights from medical literature, he questions the link between opioid prescribing and toxicity, highlighting the need for evidence-based public health policies. Learn about the human toll of opioid restrictions and explore alternatives for severe…
Our healthcare workplaces have become alarming hotspots for assaults and violence, even more dangerous than the police department, military, or heavy industry. Unfortunately, hospitals keep this grim reality hidden, leading to underreported numbers. But enough is enough – it's time to confront this issue head-on. Let's raise our voices, demand…
In this tumultuous time, it's not just about physicians facing harassment – our patients are suffering too. Threatening emails, bomb scares, and disruptive protests plague our healthcare professionals, fueled by a disturbing level of distrust and hate from a loud minority. This unprecedented situation is deeply concerning for the future…
Join Cindy Rubin, a pediatrician and breastfeeding medicine specialist, as she discusses the common challenges of nipple discomfort during breastfeeding and the controversial use of all-purpose nipple ointment (APNO). Learn about evidence-based approaches to diagnose and treat lactation issues and the importance of comprehensive breastfeeding medicine education. Discover how the…
Our profession is confronting a harsh reality that demands our immediate attention. You may have heard of the alarming number of physician suicides, approximately 400 per year, comparable to a Boeing 747 or two medical school classes. What's even more shocking is the estimated 20 to 100 attempted suicides for…