When you ask people why they went into medicine, quite often the answer is “because I wanted to help people.” Sadly, sometimes this noble intent gets lost in the rigors of medical school and the demands of the profession. And yet, I think it finds itself best in the little actions of compassion that happen every day. Good medical care requires a solid foundation of medical knowledge coupled with the ability to communicate that information to others. Much of the compassionate medical care I’ve witnessed is not about grand gestures—although those are nice—it is about the details: taking a moment to ask about someone’s family, putting your hand on a patient’s shoulder, sitting down with a patient when you ask them if they have any questions. I’ve seen all of these at work every day, and I’ve seen how they make a difference. Physicians I respect and admire do these things with each and every interaction. In this way, they establish relationships with patients and really can change lives.
I worked with an attending who wanted every presentation to start with something about the patient’s history. Not their medical issues as is standard, but something about them personally. I think that was his way of humanizing patient care and trying to teach compassion—not an easy task. Throughout the tenure of my training I have had the privilege of working with physicians who go the extra mile for students. These are the physicians that are always available for questions and guidance, and who themselves provide exemplary patient care—modeling the kind of physician I someday hope to be. These physicians are also changing lives—they are changing the lives of people who will help other people. I am grateful to have had so many of these role models throughout my education.
Lisa Fosnot,
UICOMP, Class of 2014
