August 14, 2018 | 2 min read

Have Guitar – Will Travel

By David Shih Wu, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Consider how you might use your creative gifts—and your imagination—to connect more deeply with your patients and bring them joy.

December 23, 2024 | 1 min read

Beyond the Grinch’s grump 

By Heather Agee, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Patients exhibiting "Grinch-like" behaviors may be masking underlying trauma and vulnerability. Try an empathetic "Cindy Lou" approach to foster trust and facilitate healing. 

November 21, 2024 | 2 min read

Building bridges with patients through writing

By Roshni Beeharry, MBBS, University College London

Reflective journaling can be used to help us step into our patient’s shoes to understand their unique challenges. Consider experimenting with this and other forms of writing.

October 22, 2024 | 4 min read

Note to self: “Sit down and shut up” 

By William Ravekes, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Sitting down demonstrates presence and creates a sense of equality in the interaction. Together with active listening and avoiding interruptions, this fosters trust and rapport. 

October 9, 2024 | 2 min read

Softening the “SPIKES” 

When delivering challenging news, it is crucial to tailor the communication to the patient's preferences. Break down the message into small, spaced-out segments to allow for gradual processing. 

September 12, 2024 | 2 min read

Validating feelings 

I cared for a patient who had been rejected from a rehab facility because of her weight. I was reminded of the importance of acknowledging the patient’s emotions as part of the care plan. 

September 11, 2024 | 1 min read

Would you like to share a photo?  

By Jeffrey Millstein, MD, Penn Medicine

Asking patients to show photos of family, pets, or other meaningful things can help them feel more thoroughly known and cared for. This can sometimes make a visit more productive and meaningful for everyone. 

August 8, 2024 | 2 min read

Unspoken  

From my experience working on an inpatient psychiatry unit, I learned to look for hidden messages in the patient’s story and explore these with curiosity. Sometimes a patient’s cry for help is cloaked in other behaviors.  

August 7, 2024 | 2 min read

Listen, understand, empower 

Soliciting diverse perspectives and considering unexpected etiologies can improve diagnostic accuracy. Answers to clinical puzzles may be rooted in cultural and geographic specificities.

July 22, 2024 | 1 min read

The third guest—ambiguity

By Javier Rascon, MD, Mallorca, Spain

Before a specific diagnosis has been established, clear communication is paramount. Use of metaphors, reviewing what is known so far, and encouraging questions builds trust and reduces patient fear. 

July 17, 2024 | 1 min read

Building bridges

Some patients have strong preferences that may not align with best practices of care. Empathy, active listening, and kindness can build trust and guide patients toward making informed medical decisions.

June 17, 2024 | 2 min read

Beyond superficiality

By Eric Last, DO, Northwell Health, Wantagh, New York

A few minutes genuinely listening to a patient's story can make a world of difference. It can foster authentic connections and translate into enhanced trust. 

June 5, 2024 | 2 min read

Near death

By Aurora Grutman, medical student, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Overcoming anxiety about the end of life allows one to explore concerns with empathy and openness. A willingness to learn about patients’ spiritual beliefs can help clinicians provide compassionate and holistic care.

May 22, 2024 | 1 min read

Why the well visit? 

By Jeffrey Millstein, MD, Penn Medicine

There is often a reason for an office visit beyond just “well-check.” It can be challenging and rewarding to skillfully create space for concerns to come out. 

April 29, 2024 | 3 min read

A patient’s reflection on connecting with clinicians—what matters most 

By Jennifer Ball, BSJ, MA, Chicago, IL

Empathy and cultural competence are cornerstones of excellent patient care. Prioritizing these values can help each patient feel respected, empowered, and supported. 

April 18, 2024 | 1 min read

Anger: a sign of trauma

By Lucia Ponor, MD, MBA, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Healthcare professionals can move beyond simply treating the physical condition by creating a safe space for patients to share traumatic experiences. 

April 10, 2024 | 1 min read

Toxic positivity

By Avani Prabhakar, MBBS, MPH, Johns Hopkins Medicine

A stage 4 cancer patient taught me how constant encouragement can be emotionally draining for someone facing their mortality. Presence, love, and understanding may be better received. 

March 27, 2024 | 1 min read

Deepening connections: takeaways from David Brooks’ “How to Know a Person” 

By Gretchen Miller, Managing Editor

Healthcare professionals can enhance their connections with patients and coworkers by truly understanding others. Looking beyond the surface, cultivating empathy, and mastering the art of paying attention can help clinicians build deeper relationships. 

February 28, 2024 | 1 min read

Socks and ties (archives, 2024)

By Richard Schaefer, MD, MPH, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Something as simple as wearing a unique article of clothing, like colorful socks, can help build connections with patients. 

February 27, 2024 | 1 min read

Anybody but the Chiefs

By Benjamin Vipler, MD, MEd, University of Colorado

Was Osler a sports fan? I don’t know, but I do know that connecting over a shared love of sports has helped me be “closler” to my patients. Maybe it can for you too! 

January 24, 2024 | 2 min read

Grief in the season of joy 

By Eric Last, DO, Northwell Health, Wantagh, New York

After the holidays, I think back on patients who passed in December, an especially hard time to lose a loved one. At this time of year, I make an extra effort to help loved ones process their feelings. 

January 18, 2024 | 1 min read

“Please pray for me” 

By Youngjee Choi, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

When my longtime patient with chronic illness asked me to pray for her, I told her I would.  Whether prayer is something one can offer, responding to emotional and spiritual requests can be an important part of care. 

January 16, 2024 | 2 min read

“Too maternal”

By Kimberlee Parker, DO, MPH, Baylor College of Medicine

Being a mother has helped me to be a better doctor. Both roles require empathy, which I express toward my children and patients.  

January 3, 2024 | 4 min read

Make a good stack

By Kyle Glienke, MD, Buena Vista Regional Medical Center, Iowa

Like baling hay, connecting with patients on a personal level requires intentionality and consistency.

December 18, 2023 | 1 min read

The healing power of story

By Shwetha Mudalegundi, medical student, Johns Hopkins Medicine

I used a narrative medicine technique when caring for a patient who mistrusted the healthcare system. By writing his story and reading it back to him, he understood that the care team was truly listening. 

December 6, 2023 | 1 min read

Reality bites 

By Carolina Saldanha, MD, Massachusetts General Brigham Salem Hospital 

I constructed what I thought was a great care plan for my patient with diabetes. I later learned that he wasn’t allowed lunch breaks and had nowhere to store his insulin. I now ask the patient about their daily routine to create a realistic plan. 

November 27, 2023 | 2 min read

When the truth (literally) hurts

By Eric Last, DO, Northwell Health, Wantagh, New York

When our patients are facing surgery or other procedures, thoughtful questions can help allay their worries.  

November 6, 2023 | 2 min read

Believing Patients

By Chloe Lee, MD, MPH, University of Rochester

When patients share their traumatic experiences, trust that they are almost always telling the truth. We must be empathic and compassionate to build therapeutic connections.  

October 18, 2023 | 2 min read

Have you done this before?

By Scott Lifchez, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Listen for a patient’s anxiety when they ask questions about treatment. Addressing all concerns builds a trusting relationship and helps them better tolerate procedures that may initially be painful. 

October 12, 2023 | 1 min read

A Lesson Emphasized in Brazilian Medical Training

By Thiago Mendes, MD, University of Pittsburgh

In my medical training in Brazil, I learned to live by Theodore Roosevelt’s quotation, “Nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care." 

October 2, 2023 | 4 min read

Exclamation Points And Exhalations

By Ajibike Lapite, MD, MPHTM, Texas Childrens Hospital

Even when lab results are normal, some patients may still have concerns. Take time to address their fears and worries.

September 28, 2023 | 1 min read

Out of Body 

By Jeffrey Millstein, MD, Penn Medicine

Even when clear and without excessive jargon, explanations of body processes can be confusing for some patients. Real world, non-medical analogies may be enlightening. 

September 26, 2023 | 2 min read

Talk Less, Listen More

By Aurora Grutman, medical student, Johns Hopkins Medicine

A conversation with a fentanyl overdose survivor taught me to listen with humble curiosity, and talk to patients thoughtfully with respect and sensitivity.

September 7, 2023 | 2 min read

“That Guy”

By Maureen Flood, NP, Johns Hopkins Medicine

When caring for a patient that pushes my buttons, I remind myself that they were once an innocent baby who was loved by someone. 

September 6, 2023 | 3 min read

Getting Older in Medicine

By Joanne Shay, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Both of my knees need to be replaced—I already can’t wait to get back to playing pickleball. I now have renewed empathy in the OR and remind patients: “Recovery will take time. Try to be patient.” 

August 21, 2023 | 2 min read

DO you see me? CAN you see me? 

By Mandy Hill, DrPH, MPH, UTHealth Houston, McGovern Medical School

As a part of every patient encounter, I ask myself how I can ensure that they have a positive experience. This begins with recognizing the patient as a person. 

July 10, 2023 | 3 min read

Dying With Peace And Joy 

By Lillie Shockney, RN, MS, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Empowering your patient to be the ultimate decision maker about all things related to the end of their life is fulfilling and meaningful for both of you. 

July 9, 2018 | <1 min read

On Clipping Nails

By William Greenough, MD, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

Making a moment for foot care creates an opportunity to bond with my patient and strengthen our relationship.

June 5, 2023 | 1 min read

Saying No With Compassion And Curiosity

By Jeffrey Millstein, MD, Penn Medicine

When patients request something that is unsafe, be curious and explore their perspective before declining. This approach is collaborative and less stressful for both clinician and patient. 

May 23, 2023 | 3 min read

“Both And”

By Jennifer Lycette, MD, rural oncologist in the Pacific Northwest

As the only oncologist in a small rural town, I must often care for patients who are also my friends.

May 17, 2023 | 2 min read

Art Cart

By Laura Castillo, pre-med, Johns Hopkins University

Arts and crafts in the hospital can provide simple joy to everyone. Sometimes a colored sheet of paper and a few well-placed folds go a long way. 

May 11, 2023 | 1 min read

Life is a Rollercoaster

By Lucia Ponor, MD, MBA, Johns Hopkins Medicine

When my patient told me about how chemotherapy was affecting his family, I realized that sometimes we need to set aside medical facts and just listen. 

May 10, 2023 | 1 min read

Coming Back Later

By Tetsuyuki Kawai, medical student, Texas Tech

I learned from my patient with terminal lung cancer that it’s often helpful to give time to process bad news before making a medical plan together.  

May 9, 2023 | 3 min read

Interpreting Patients’ Goals

By Adela Wu, MD, Stanford Medicine

While caring for a patient who spoke a different language than I, the medical interpreter translated more than words. She also explained cultural differences that proved invaluable.

May 8, 2023 | 1 min read

“How are you?”

By Rheanna Platt, MD, MPH, Johns Hopkins Medicine

When asking patients and others how they are doing post-pandemic, consider opening with, “I know the transition back to ‘normal’ hasn’t been easy for everyone.” Then leave time for responses other than “fine.”  

May 4, 2023 | 2 min read

The Power of Stories

By Flora Kisuule, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Scott Wright, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

A recent grand rounds by Dr. Kimberly Manning illuminated how stories give meaning to why we do what we do.

April 27, 2023 | 1 min read

Love Lessons

By Jennifer Plotkin, MD, Los Angeles VA

I was afraid to connect on a deep level with my patients, concerned that my heart would overpower my head. Such relationships are what make practicing medicine meaningful. 

April 12, 2023 | 1 min read

Still Working After All These Years

By Avani Prabhakar, MBBS, MPH, Johns Hopkins Medicine

When I empathized with my older patient about the hardships of colon cancer, she began sharing many of the good things in her life, like still being able to work. 

April 5, 2023 | 2 min read

Big “S” And Not Much “OAP” 

By Emily Rodriguez, medical student, Johns Hopkins Medicine

I could offer no medicine, but I was able to give my patient the best treatment possible just by listening and validating.  

April 3, 2023 | 5 min read

“Get Well Soon”

By Aidan Crowley, Medical Student, University of Pennsylvania

In the extra minutes I spent getting to know my patient, she shared a secret that allowed me to help her follow care recommendations.