Doctors are teachers

The word doctor has Latin origins, meaning “to teach.” It takes a long time to become a doctor. For most who embark on the journey, it involves 4 years of college, 4 years of medical school, and 3-8 years of residency training, depending on specialty. A lot of time is spent learning. Once a doctor has completed training and starts practicing independently, there are lots of opportunities to engage with patients. Unfortunately healthcare has gained a reputation for paternalistic relationships, where the doctor essentially tells the patient what to do with no explanation. People have historically learned to trust their doctors without question. More recently, trust in healthcare and doctors has weakened for a variety of reasons. It seems that the paternalistic attitude is losing acceptance among the general public and people want more from their healthcare team. When recommendations are made, why are they being made? If a medication is being prescribed, people are asking why? What are the other options? What is my diagnosis? How did this happen? These are a few of many valid questions. It is incredible that people are more invested in their health than ever, and doctors should embrace this new sense of empowerment. With emerging research and technology, the medical world is constantly evolving and recommendations are changing. Doctors are expected to keep up to date on these things, and then pass on the information to their patients. This takes diligence and practice. How do I take this complicated science and present it to my patient in a way they can understand it and implement it into their life? Your doctor should be teaching you how to be healthy, not just telling you what to do. Doctors are learners and teachers.