When we think about health care, the first things that often come to mind are pills, procedures, and treatments. But early in my military medical career, I gained a deeper understanding of what true healing really involves. I learned to truly listen to a patient’s story of suffering, engage in conversations about their healthcare goals, and address areas like prevention, health promotion, and overall well-being.
In my latest article on Healio, Beyond pills and procedures: The healing power of relationships, I explore the profound impact of getting to know your patient beyond what you see in their electronic health record. It touches upon how healing is most likely to emerge when a trusting and empathetic relationship between doctor and patient exists.
I also discuss avoiding the general assumption that short appointments and transactional interactions have replaced meaningful, person-centered care. We can make both happen with a little mindful reframing and understanding that healing may not occur in a straight line.
I encourage you to check out the full article today.
Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash