In this article, Dr. Whitcomb presents an intriquing thesis: it is not so much the knowledge and skill set that essentially define a physician but rather certain personal characteristics. For Whitcomb, these attributes – being caring, inquisitive, and civic-minded – are what truly embody the essence of a physician, or rather, a good physician.
A few points were of key interest to me.
1. Whitcomb referred to these desirable qualities as those which are the “public’s expectations” of what a good doctor is. Although colleague respect is important, we must remember the reason we do what we do: our patients.
2. “The secret of the care of the patient is in caring for the patient.” (Francis Peabody) As a nurse, I have experienced that more than the treatment I have provided, what has been most healing for the patient was the compassion and respect with which I delivered the care.
3. I was impressed that his “inquisitive” trait referred not only to continuing education but also to patience in the diagnosis process.
4. The final element of special interest to me was that Dr. Whitcomb stated that these attributes should be part of medical school training. I suppose it always has been in a certain way but his suggestion that there is a concerted effort to make it a learning objective is important.
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