What did you learn from your dad that influences your practice?

Carl Streed Jr, MD, MPH, Boston Medical Center

My dad taught me most of what I understand about the natural world (e.g. hiking, camping, wilderness survival). One lesson is “leave it better than you found it.” I approach patient care and healthcare systems with this lesson.

Jill Bybee, MD, Helen DeVos Children's Hospital

My dad taught me to assume that people are generally good and are trying the best they can in the moment. This reminds me to bring grace to my interactions with patients, families, and staff.

Panagis Galiatsatos, MD, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

My father was a painter and carpenter. The best thing he ever said to me was, “Whatever you’re going to do in life, make sure you leave an impact.”

Michael Crocetti, MD, Johns Hopkins Community Physicians

My dad was a salesman for 40 years. He taught me the most important thing that influences my practice and that is:

“Always strive to get to KNOW the person.”

By getting to know the people he sold products to, he was able to learn about their families, what they loved to do outside of work, and what they expected from him. As a kid, I would sometimes go on sales trips with him in the car and I was amazed how well he communicated and related to people. His customers were not only buying products but they were developing a longitudinal trusting relationship with him.

I have translated this process into my practice when caring for children and their families. Knowing the families that I care for optimizes communication, affirms shared decision making, and strengthens the therapeutic relationship.

Mike Fingerhood, MD, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

My dad was a World War II veteran in Normandy. I think that as a result of his experience, he tended not to show emotion, but yet was full of compassion as a school teacher. He taught me to be introspective and be guided in life by showing compassion, but unlike him, I easily show emotion.

Jessica Colburn, MD, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

A sense of humor helps us to connect with others, makes the journey easier, and adds more joy to life. My Dad doesn’t take himself too seriously, and knows how to use humor at the right times to put others at ease.