Takeaway
“When I was a med student at McGill, I did a rotation with Dr. Balfour Mount. He was magical in his abilities to connect, communicate, and offer comfort to all patients in the palliative care unit. I think of him regularly (30 years later) and am still aiming to emulate his grace.”-Dr. Scott Wright, Johns Hopkins Medicine
Passion in the Medical Profession | October 6, 2023 | <1 min read
Highlights
When I was a med student at McGill, I did a rotation with Dr. Balfour Mount. He was magical in his abilities to connect, communicate, and offer comfort to all patients in the palliative care unit. I think of him regularly (30 years later) and am still aiming to emulate his grace.
Dr. Scott Wright, Johns Hopkins Medicine
Patients have taught me to show myself grace.
Dr. Shannon Scott-Vernaglia, Mass General
Years ago, one of my patients said, “You ask some pretty good questions, but there's one question you don’t ask that you should: you should ask, ‘What’s the biggest cause of aggravation in your life?'” I've followed her advice and have marveled at how much more I learn about the lives of my patients and the struggles they are facing.
Dr. David Hellman, Johns Hopkins Medicine
Patients have taught me resilience, kindness, and focusing on what matters: health, loved ones, meaningful connections, and small wins. My favorite teachers showed me how to keep the patient at the center of all decisions and not let the craziness and frustrations of the day take over compassion.
Dr. Aline Charabaty, Johns Hopkins Medicine
From a mentor: zoom out and gain perspective before responding to a challenge.
Dr. Jeff Millstein, Penn Medicine
From my most important mentor: “Care, sincerely, about your patients. Your best work will come naturally after that.”
Dr. Eric Last, Northwell Health
My mentor taught me that the character of a physician is foundational to excellent patient care.
Dr. Margaret Chisolm, Johns Hopkins Medicine
To always listen and always make sure the patient is heard.