Takeaway
Exceptional patient care requires "pragmatic empathy"—the artful blend of compassion and candor—combined with a holistic approach that considers the patient's broader life context.
Passion in the Medical Profession | January 6, 2025 | 2 min read
By Kristopher Keppel, medical student, Johns Hopkins Medicine
As medical students, we’re often told to chase the “right” rotations—the ones that boost our residency applications and pad our CVs. But what about the rotations that nourish our souls and refine our bedside manner? I recently had the unique opportunity to explore this question through an elective with the Miller-Coulson Academy of Clinical Excellence (MCACE) at Johns Hopkins. Instead of focusing on specific procedures or disease processes, this rotation offered something far more valuable: a chance to witness the subtle art of truly exceptional patient care.
For two weeks, I shadowed a diverse group of MCACE physicians, from developmental pediatricians to endocrinologists, observing their interactions and meticulously noting what set them apart. Beyond the expected qualities of kindness and work ethic, I discovered a unifying thread: a mastery of pragmatic empathy.
1. The power of pragmatic empathy
What struck me most was these physicians’ ability to seamlessly blend compassion with candor. They offered genuine support and understanding while simultaneously delivering difficult news or reaffirming complex clinical assessments. This delicate balance allowed patients to feel heard and validated, even when faced with challenging diagnoses or treatment plans. It wasn’t simply about being “nice”; it was about communicating with honesty and empathy, ensuring patients felt both cared for and informed. This “pragmatic empathy,” a term often used in business and leadership, proves equally essential in medicine.
2. Cultivating genuine connections
These physicians didn’t just treat patients; they connected with them. Notably, the doctors fostered a welcoming atmosphere by acknowledging and engaging with everyone—from nurses to custodial staff—creating a positive ripple effect felt by patients. This emphasizes the importance of treating the entire healthcare staff as a team, with the patient at the center.
3. Embracing a holistic perspective
These specialists looked beyond their specific domains, considering the broader context of a patient’s life. They addressed not only medical issues but also social determinants of health and the interplay of physical and mental well-being. This demonstrates the value of integrated care and addressing the whole person.
4. Prioritizing patient needs and expectations
Medicine is a service, and these physicians prioritized understanding the patient’s specific concerns and expectations for each visit. This highlights the importance of active listening and shared decision-making to ensure patient satisfaction and adherence.
5. Maintaining a growth mindset
These doctors demonstrated an unwavering commitment to learning and improvement. They embraced intellectual humility, even seeking insights from medical students. This underscores the importance of lifelong learning and continuous improvement in patient care.
This piece expresses the views solely of the author. It does not necessarily represent the views of any organization, including Johns Hopkins Medicine.