I’ll be highlighting some of my tags here periodically. You’ll find tags at the bottom of the post in a small, muted font. I use the Doctoring 101 tag on 33 charts for posts that deal with the nuts and bolts of caring for patients. These posts cover the tips and tricks that work for me as a full-time clinician. It’s how I do the things I do as a doctor. This is the ... Continue Reading about Doctoring 101 – 33 charts Tag Spotlight
Should Physicians Give Their Cell Phone Number to Patients?
I hear this occasionally on Twitter: “My doctor gave me his cell phone number so I can call him whenever I have a problem.” Occasionally I hear from physicians that they give their cell phone number to their patients. While some practice situations necessitate this (rural, solo practice or concierge) in other circumstances I don’t think this is fully thought ... Continue Reading about Should Physicians Give Their Cell Phone Number to Patients?
Tell Me What You Understand: My First Question for Hospitalized Patients
This is my first question for hospitalized patients: Tell me what you understand. Let me explain. I’m a pediatric specialist. I help hospitalists and pediatricians care for children. Actually, I’m typically one of several providers helping families care for a medically complex children in the hospital. And for better or worse communication can sometimes be ... Continue Reading about Tell Me What You Understand: My First Question for Hospitalized Patients
Do Your Patients Think You’re an Amazing Doctor?
A friend had asked me to see one of her neighbors. A young child with some elimination issues, the family had been to a couple of other doctors with no success. A fairly routine problem that needed the right evaluation and a consistent approach, it was sorted out in 2-3 visits. When I ran into my friend a month later, I was met with hugs and thanks for ... Continue Reading about Do Your Patients Think You’re an Amazing Doctor?
Overutilization and Clinical Exhibitionism
This brief essay from the British Medical Journal is worth thinking about. Here’s the quote about overutilization that pulled me in: There is a hidden curriculum in medicine that encourages trainees to do extensive workups to demonstrate their knowledge and curiosity. As a resident I rotated through one consult service where I was encouraged to strive for 10 ... Continue Reading about Overutilization and Clinical Exhibitionism
We Heard You Were the Best Doctor
I get this sometimes from patients on their first visit: We came to you because you’re the best. But every doctor gets this from time to time. Some doctors believe they truly are the best doctor. But let’s get something straight. I consider myself a solid clinician with good skills and work habits. I also work directly with some 40 pediatric gastroenterologists ... Continue Reading about We Heard You Were the Best Doctor