A problem must have a name and definition to be solved, and the increased stress experienced by medical practitioners can only be addressed if its parameters are well defined. One defined source of stress is being named in some kind of official complaint. A recent study surveyed 7,926 United Kingdom physicians, one cohort of whom… Read More »UK Study Explores Impact of Malpractice Stress
For many years, her psychotherapy appointment was on Friday mornings at ten o’clock. One visit, she casually mentioned she was taking psychotropic medications prescribed by two other physicians, her gynecologist and primary care physician. She fought the idea that she was placing herself at risk by being treated by multiple doctors for her affective disorder.… Read More »Fridays at 10: When Life Is Unfair to Both Patient and Doctor
When physicians are faced with the anguish and turmoil from a medical mistake or the devastation of faced with any legal action, they may have questioned to themselves and those closest to them, why would anyone choose to become a doctor? Dr. Danielle Ofri has prepared an article, published in the New York Times, which… Read More »Dr. Danielle Ofri on Why Would Anyone Choose to Become a Doctor?
Dr. Plumb’s poignant account of her being sued for malpractice as a second year resident awakens memories for those of us who have been in similar circumstances. Her articulate and intimate description of her years of introspection and suffering provide of mirror for the rest of us who have trodden a similar path. Although dismissed… Read More »Sara Charles, MD: “On Being a Doctor”