Takeaway
Conversing about sports with patients and colleagues, even if you cheer for rival teams, can be a light and fun way to build connections.
Connecting with Patients | September 22, 2025 | 1 min read
By Richard Schaefer, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine
“What brings you to the orthopedic clinic today?” I asked the patient.
“Well, Doctor, I was hoping I could get a cortisone shot for these aching knees,” the woman replied. “I’ve had them in the past, and they . . . Wait! Are you a Bills fan? I’m a Ravens fan! We’re playing you this week! Is this going to be a problem?”
Haha! Yep, I’m a lifelong diehard Buffalo Bills fan that now works in Baltimore. My Bills lanyard holding my ID badge gave me away. Many of the clinic staff and patients are equally as diehard Baltimore Ravens fans. This was the week of the first game of the season–Baltimore at Buffalo–and we were enjoying some good-natured pregame trash talking in the clinic.
After chatting a little more, examining her knees, and talking football, we decided it wasn’t going to be a problem at all. I administered cortisone injections for both of her knees. We talked about repeating those in the future if needed.
“Thank you Doctor,” she said. And with a smile, added “And I hope your team loses on Sunday!” before turning and walking out of the clinic with her rolling walker.
Well played, ma’am, well played! “Enjoy the game!” I called out after her.
Author’s note: The Bills beat the Ravens 41-40 in a thriller. A real nail biter. Elation for Bills fans, dejection for Ravens fans. After the game, I changed my lanyard out for a few days so that I wouldn’t rub it in on my colleagues and patients. That was a painful loss for them. I know. I’ve been there.
This piece expresses the views solely of the author. It does not necessarily represent the views of any organization, including Johns Hopkins Medicine.