April 12, 2018 | 3 min read

Creating a Safe Space For Teen Well Visits

By Barry Solomon, MD, MPH, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

Providing excellent care for adolescents includes creating a safe space for confidential discussions. The clinically excellent pediatrician is able to help support the teen to share sensitive concerns with parents and caregivers.

September 5, 2019 | 2 min read

Book Review of “In Pain”

By Traci Speed, MD, PhD, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

Clinicians need to understand that patients' pain is real to build rapport and reassurance, which will help patients be open to the full range of treatment options.

May 16, 2019 | 5 min read

Starry, Starry Night

By Juliette Perzhinsky, MD, MSc, Central Michigan University

There are times that as clinicians we become patients ourselves, needing compassionate care for injuries entirely unrelated to our chief complaint.

May 19, 2022 | 2 min read

Recognizing Relapse

By Susan Lehmann, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

The earlier that the return of psychiatric symptoms is detected, the more quickly a patient’s mental well-being can be restored. 

July 29, 2024 | 2 min read

Becoming a lifeline 

By Joanna Cohen, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Clinicians must proactively identify patients at risk of suicide. A multi-faceted approach includes regular screenings for depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, and ensuring all patients and caregivers have access to a crisis hotline.

November 20, 2018 | 2 min read

The Healing Power of Words

By Helen Bradshaw, MD, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

What we say to patients has the power to promote healing.

November 21, 2018 | 1 min read

Asking Difficult Questions

By Julia Ross, MD, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

Asking probing questions is difficult, but can make a difference in understanding your patient.

November 19, 2018 | 2 min read

Learning from Learners

By Margaret Chisolm, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Teaching is the best way to learn. In the end, I am not only a teacher and my residents are not only learners, but we are both a little of each.

October 16, 2018 | 3 min read

The Heart of Trauma-Informed Care

By Cooper Lloyd, MD, MPH, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

Trauma-informed care is care in which we recognize trauma’s prevalence and long-term effects; understand trauma’s effects on patient behavior and engagement in care; prioritize patient choice and collaboration while building trust; and offer education and resources to promote healing.

August 17, 2022 | 1 min read

Lessons From “A Field Guide to Getting Lost”

By David Kopacz, MD, University of Washington

Many clinicians feel burned out at some point in their careers. While this may feel disorienting, it’s possible to learn and grow from this experience.

February 20, 2025 | 2 min read

Insights from the book “Be water, my friend”  

By Scott Wright, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Marvel at the adaptability of water—perhaps you may be able to embrace, rather than resist change. Accepting that healthcare is continuously changing might allow for less frustration.

July 9, 2024 | 3 min read

Takeaways from the book “Progress Notes” 

By Abraham Nussbaum, MD, Denver Health

Excellent clinicians understand patients not just as bodies, but also as individuals within a community. Healthcare professionals should be trained in both for a more holistic approach to patient care. 

September 8, 2021 | 2 min read

How to Mitigate Caregiver Burnout

By Simone Lescott, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Caring for a loved one can be emotionally exhausting. Remind caregivers to prioritize self-care and encourage them to seek support from others.

March 24, 2020 | 1 min read

Exercising for Wellness During the Pandemic

By Erica Leonard, MD, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

With the drastic changes to our lives due to COVID-19, we can still stay active. Exercise during this challenging time can help improve everyone's emotional well-being and physical health.

June 26, 2023 | 2 min read

How the Arts Can Address Mental Health Inequities 

By Alex Rodriguez, MPH, University of Florida Center for Arts in Medicine

Awareness of local and online art and cultural offerings enables healthcare professionals to provide enriching recommendations to patients. 

April 15, 2025 | 3 min read

The revolving door 

A patient’s familiarity with my hospital, even down to memorizing the cafeteria menu, highlighted the urgent need to address the factors driving readmissions. Read on to find out how you can do this in your own practice.