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Moving Us Closer To Osler
A Miller Coulson Academy of Clinical Excellence Initiative
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Creative Arts In Medicine
Connecting with Patients
Passion in the Medical Profession
Lifelong Learning in Clinical Excellence
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October 7, 2021 | 1 min read

Wildfires, The Pandemic, And Public Health

By Panagis Galiatsatos, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Healthcare professionals must work with the community they serve, focusing on open dialogues and communication. This will help citizens deal with unforeseen challenges.

June 22, 2020 | 4 min read

Doing Something or Doing Nothing: Health Disparities, Racial Justice, and the Risk of Failing to Meet This Moment

By Hal Kronsberg, MD, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

Truly addressing health disparities and racial justice requires an intense and challenging examination of our own clinical practices and how they may perpetuate inequalities. We must continually hold ourselves and our institutions accountable on the path to building a more just medicine.

March 28, 2018 | 2 min read

The Physician-Citizen—Making Health Accessible to All

By Panagis Galiatsatos, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Part I of II: Why being “bedside” in our patients’ communities matters.

September 15, 2020 | 3 min read

How to Talk With Patients About Sexual Health

By Matthew Hamill, MBChB, PhD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Sexual health can be a sensitive topic to discuss. Asking open-ended questions and allowing time for your patient’s story to unfold can create a safe space for conversations about sexual health.

November 2, 2020 | 4 min read

Prescription For a Healthy Future—Vote

By Deanna Behrens, MD, Advocate Children\'s Hospital, Elizabeth Mack, MD, Jenna Miller, MD, Katherine Hoops, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Clinicians have a responsibility to advocate for policies that can improve the health of all. We must take our civic responsibility seriously and make a plan to vote. 

Many of the anti-vaccine messages aim to bring forth emotion in the public, especially fear. Remain calm when talking with patients, friends, family, and neighbors.

May 26, 2021 | 1 min read

Talking With Those Opposed to Vaccines

By Panagis Galiatsatos, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

When speaking with people who respond to scientific information in a challenging manner, the most critical thing to remember is to stay calm. Refrain from simply talking over those with whom you're in conversation.

"Enlightenment," by David Kopacz, 2020.

December 28, 2020 | 6 min read

Medical Activism: A Foundation of Professionalism

By David Kopacz, MD, University of Washington

Clinicians should expand their definition of professionalism to include working for societal change to improve the health of all.

March 31, 2022 | 2 min read

A Lesson in Cultural Humility

By Mengyi "Zed" Zha, MD, Othello, Washington

Working at a community health clinic serving migrant workers from Mexico, I was confronted with a pervasive stereotype that the female patients were “dramatic.” I learned how important it was for patients’ concerns to be taken seriously.   

August 12, 2020 | 2 min read

Chief Complaint: Racism

By Syeachia Dennis, MD, University of Oklahoma

Patients are increasingly recognizing the impact of racism on their health. We should be prepared to help patients confront this and consider this core to our work to systemically address this public health crisis.

May 21, 2020 | 1 min read

The Importance of Writing For Popular Media Outlets

By Koushik Kasanagottu, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

In this era of misinformation, we have a moral responsibility as physician-citizens to write for media outlets that our patients read. Sharing accurate health information with the general public can inform decision-making and improve health.

May 13, 2020 | 2 min read

Flattening the Inaccessibility Curve

By Bonnielin Swenor, PhD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

There's been limited attention addressing the disability perspective during the pandemic. Finding creative solutions to accessibility challenges during this time is critical.

October 20, 2021 | 3 min read

Rethinking the Routine in the Pursuit of Inclusion

Interprofessional team members bring a rich variety of perspectives about patients that can lead to better whole person care. Using first names among our team helps minimize power differentials.

July 1, 2020 | 3 min read

How to Support Immigrant Communities During the Pandemic

By Amelie Meltzer, Medical Student, University of Pittsburgh, Reuben Mathew, MPH, Medical Student, St. George University, Zackary Berger, MD, PhD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

All people, including immigrants in the U.S., need comprehensive care at this time. Clinicians should be aware of the resources to help immigrant patients obtain medication, food, housing, and mental health support.

February 25, 2021 | 2 min read

How You Can Help With Intimate Partner Violence

By Lisa Geller, MPH, Educational Fund to Stop Gun Violence

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a public health crisis and most deadly when a gun is involved. Clinicians should screen patients for IPV, ask about firearm possession, and refer those at risk of IPV to appropriate services.

October 17, 2022 | 2 min read

Working With The Media For The Public Good

By Maria Simbra, MD

Clinicians can communicate health messages effectively by using memorable stories to share the main message and understanding the reporter’s constraints.  

May 17, 2022 | 1 min read

Word Choice Related to Substance Use Disorders

By Beth McGinty, PhD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Words matter; calling patients with a substance use disorder an “addict” defines them by their addiction. We need to ensure that our patients feel comfortable and supported so that they will engage in treatment.  

March 29, 2018 | 1 min read

Top Five Tips For Successful Community Engagement

By Panagis Galiatsatos, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Part II of II: Five specific strategies to gain the trust of your patient’s community, agree on health goals, and together define what success looks like.

September 24, 2019 | 1 min read

Counseling Patients on the Dangers of E-cigarettes

By Panagis Galiatsatos, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

E-cigarettes pose unique health risks. Screening and informing our patients of these concerns is imperative.

December 10, 2018 | 3 min read

Immigrants Should Not Have to Choose Between Health and a Green Card

By Lochan Shah, Neha Anand, Priyal Gandhi

We urge you to leverage your voice as an agent of change by submitting a comment opposing the proposed rule to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security before the deadline, TODAY, December 10, 2018. Make your voice heard so that families across the country do not have to choose between their health and their immigration status.

"Shamanic Vision." Original painting by the author. Copyright with the author.

April 2, 2020 | 4 min read

Staying Connected Inside and Out During the Pandemic

By David Kopacz, MD, University of Washington

Finding creative ways to connect to ourselves and to others is more important than ever in these days of social distancing.

May 20, 2020 | 4 min read

Lessons From Ebola Outbreaks

By Linda Mobula, MD, MPH, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Prior epidemics, like Ebola, have taught us much about caring for patients. While PPE creates a barrier between ourselves and our patients, it’s still possible to give excellent care.

October 19, 2020 | 2 min read

Book Review of “One by One by One”

By Michelle Gyenes, MS, Columbia Mailman School of Public Health

Never underestimate the power of teamwork in caring for patients. What can feel impossible for one person may be accomplished with the collaboration and support of others.

Employers must cultivate a nurturing culture that supports the emotional and physical needs of their employees.

February 9, 2021 | 3 min read

How to Support Patients With Chronic Pain and Substance Use Disorder

By Juliette Perzhinsky, MD, MSc, Central Michigan University

All patients must be treated with empathy. Those suffering with chronic pain and addiction may be especially deserving of compassion.

May 13, 2021 | 3 min read

Combatting Vaccine Hesitancy

By Jade Cobern, MD, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health

We must listen without judgment to patients who are vaccine-hesitant. We need to hear their worries and concerns to address them appropriately.

A child playing with a parent's gun that wasn't safely stored.

October 15, 2020 | 3 min read

How to Talk About Firearm Safety During the Pandemic

By Katherine Hoops, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

With a surge in gun sales during the pandemic, exposure to firearms has increased for all. It’s imperative that clinicians give comprehensive firearm safety counseling to patients during these challenging times.

September 22, 2020 | 1 min read

Voting as Part of Clinical Excellence

By Margot Kelly-Hedrick, MBE, (she/her/hers), Medical Student, Duke University

Voting is a way you can advocate for your patients and improve health outcomes.

August 25, 2021 | 2 min read

‘Stay calm and carry on’

By Nicole Cifra, MD, MPH, University of Rochester

Educating people about the value of vaccinations is our duty. If you encounter resistance or hostility, don’t take it personally, and reach out to colleagues for support.

March 8, 2021 | 3 min read

How to Talk With The Media

By Stephanie McGann Jantzen, Strategic & Crisis Communications Professional

When speaking with the media about healthcare topics, provide up-to-date information, stick to the facts, and avoid medical jargon.

August 12, 2019 | 3 min read

Mental Illness and Mass Shootings

By Cassandra Crifasi, PhD, MPH, Emma Beth McGinty, PhD, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health

Most people with serious mental illness are never violent toward others. Due to the media’s misleading focus on the role of mental illness in gun violence generally and mass shootings specifically, many people are afraid that a diagnosis of a serious mental health condition like schizophrenia means they or their loved one are at high risk of hurting other people, which is not supported by the research evidence.

October 22, 2020 | 2 min read

Patient Voting Matters

By Patrick Hemming, MD, Duke University

Clinicians are in a position of influence and can encourage patients to vote. Expressing confidence in patients’ ability to make a difference as a voter may motivate them to take action

The Juneteenth Star.

June 17, 2021 | 5 min read

Lessons From 1865: What Clinicians Can Learn From Juneteenth

This weekend we can work toward unlearning inaccurate history, practice critical reflection, engage in transformative conversations, and plan to take action that will promote health equity for all patients.

May 24, 2021 | 2 min read

In Sickness and in Wealth

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

When traveling to Denmark, I learned how much the Danes appreciate and value equitable access to care within their healthcare system. Countries can learn from one another, and clinicians can be impactful advocates for change.

March 17, 2021 | 3 min read

Making Unconscious Bias Training Work

By Verna Monson, PhD, Minneapolis, Minnesota

To be an antiracist, you must be aware of your own biases and learn from your missteps. And remember that unconscious bias training is only a starting point for dismantling discrimination.

September 29, 2022 | 2 min read

Documenting Humanity

By Jane Abernethy, MD, MBE, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Clinicians are in a powerful position to advocate for undocumented people, who are among the most vulnerable patients. By acknowledging the courage of this population, we can affirm their strength and resilience.

If weather permits, advise patients to plan their feast outside this Thanksgiving,

November 12, 2020 | 1 min read

How to Have Healthy Holidays

By Panagis Galiatsatos, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Helping patients plan safe get-togethers can slow the spread of COVID-19. Following guidelines may allow patients to connect with their family.

May 28, 2019 | 3 min read

Supporting my Patients who Smoke

By Panagis Galiatsatos, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

It's important to make sure that the responsibility for addressing tobacco dependence is placed on the shoulders of clinicians, and off of the shoulders of the afflicted.

September 9, 2020 | 1 min read

We’re All in This Together

By Mike Fingerhood, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

With the added stress caused by the pandemic, make an extra effort to screen your patients for anxiety and depression. Empathizing about shared concerns may facilitate patient expression.

November 23, 2020 | 3 min read

Working With Perpetrators of Intimate Partner Violence

By Galina Portnoy, PhD, Yale School of Medicine

In addition to identifying survivors of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), complementary efforts are needed to detect those at risk of perpetrating IPV to prevent future incidents.

Hannah Oswalt

Raised on Long Island, New York, I headed south to Clemson University for my undergraduate degree (and warmer weather).  Shortly after, I made my way back up the East Coast and landed in Baltimore where I earned a Master of Health Science at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. I now help care for patients as…

October 6, 2022 | 2 min read

Repairing Trust

By Fiona Miller, medical student, UCSF, Pringl Miller, MD, San Francisco, California

Establishing rapport with each patient includes asking about previous experiences with the healthcare system. If there was a negative experience, understand that rebuilding trust may take time and commitment.  

September 2, 2020 | 4 min read

A Call for Advocacy in Medicine

By Sara Wallam, Medical Student, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Systemic racism is prevalent throughout our society. To dismantle disparities in health outcomes for minority patients, clinicians must advocate for their patients at the local level and for communities on a regional and national scale.

August 16, 2022 | 2 min read

Outbreaks as Opportunities

By Jade Cobern, MD, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health

Talking about monkeypox and the return of polio can remind caregivers that vaccinating young children against other illnesses is essential.

February 26, 2018 | 3 min read

Treating Everyone Uniquely: How to Create a Welcoming Experience for LGBTQ Patients and Families

By Carl G. Streed Jr., MD, MPH, Boston Medical Center

Doing what has been done before will only lead to more of the same for patients who have been discriminated against in society and in healthcare. Be prepared to enter uncharted territory, seek to educate yourself about the unique healthcare needs of your patients.

Photo by David Kopacz.

March 9, 2022 | 6 min read

Being a Naturalist to Improve The Health of All

By David Kopacz, MD, University of Washington

Listening and closely observing patients, in the way we appreciate and notice nature, can promote humanistic care and clinician well-being.

Practicing humility can improve team-based care.

November 10, 2020 | 2 min read

Moving From Empathy to Humility

By Barret Michalec, PhD, Arizona State University

Acting with humility is granting someone else a higher status than one claims for themselves. This acknowledgement of respect is critical to being an effective healthcare professional.

May 7, 2020 | 5 min read

Captivity and COVID-19

By Cesar Lopez, MD-PhD student, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Zackary Berger, MD, PhD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Severely ill incarcerated individuals will be hospitalized at disproportionately high rates during this pandemic. As always, healthcare professionals should treat them with dignity and respect. Better care of those who are imprisoned may help with our public health efforts and response.

February 17, 2021 | 1 min read

How to Talk to Patients About Unnecessary Antibiotics

By Benjamin Miller, Johns Hopkins University, Sara Keller, MD, MPH, MSPH, Johns Hopkins Medicine

When talking with patients about antibiotics that are not indicated, emphasize personal potential side effects such as yeast infections and diarrhea.

Dr. Margaret Chisolm enjoying an outdoor art installation at the Glenstone. "FOREST (for a thousand years), 2012." Janet Cardiff and George Bures Miller.

February 6, 2019 | 5 min read

On Looking

By Flora Smyth Zahra, MA Clin Ed, DRestDent RCS, FHEA, Kings College London, Margaret Chisolm, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

The arts and humanities show us how to live as human beings. Our encounters with art help us to be better healthcare professionals, and give us insights that will help our learners and patients lead meaningful and purposeful lives.

May 3, 2021 | 6 min read

Why we Must Learn About Our Patients’ Communities

By Daniel Thomas, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Make time to learn about and invest in the community you serve to deepen your connection with patients.

November 2, 2021 | 2 min read

What All Clinicians Must Know About End-of-Life Care

By Pringl Miller, MD, San Francisco, California

Initiating and withdrawing life-sustaining medical treatment is the patient’s or their surrogate's decision, not ours. We must always honor their wishes.

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