As a working GP, occasional patient and occasional carer, this
article struck a particular chord. In an era of increasing sub-specialism
it was refreshing to hear the authors take a step back and question the
complexity, industry and outcome of continually 'doing things to
patients'.
How though do we measure the impact or utility of such research? I
left a copy of the article with someone who has no medical background
but is caring for a relative with Alzheimers. She had an appointment
with an old age psychiatrist later that week and was wearily anticipating
another round of investigation, referral and potentially 'disruptive'
treatment. Instead she was overjoyed to encounter an empathic, supportive
and non-directive young doctor who recognised that both patient and carer
were becoming overwhelmed and responded appropriately.
Disruptive medicine often results from doctors misunderstanding
patient expectation, the contribution of colleagues and the consequence of
action. Perhaps the culture shift that the authors call for may come from
a shared inter-professional understanding that, to quote John Donne "no
man is an island entire of itself...because I am involved in mankind"
Rapid Response:
The social utility of research - a small example
Dear Editor,
As a working GP, occasional patient and occasional carer, this
article struck a particular chord. In an era of increasing sub-specialism
it was refreshing to hear the authors take a step back and question the
complexity, industry and outcome of continually 'doing things to
patients'.
How though do we measure the impact or utility of such research? I
left a copy of the article with someone who has no medical background
but is caring for a relative with Alzheimers. She had an appointment
with an old age psychiatrist later that week and was wearily anticipating
another round of investigation, referral and potentially 'disruptive'
treatment. Instead she was overjoyed to encounter an empathic, supportive
and non-directive young doctor who recognised that both patient and carer
were becoming overwhelmed and responded appropriately.
Disruptive medicine often results from doctors misunderstanding
patient expectation, the contribution of colleagues and the consequence of
action. Perhaps the culture shift that the authors call for may come from
a shared inter-professional understanding that, to quote John Donne "no
man is an island entire of itself...because I am involved in mankind"
Competing interests:
None declared
Competing interests: No competing interests