People like to think the worst about doctors: We don’t listen, we don’t care, we only want your money. But, the truth is we do care, and that is why most of us answered the calling to become doctors. That is why the burnout rate for doctors is so high.
Patients hate to wait in the waiting room for too long. But, truth is, I sometimes need to take a break to cry because I just told a patient they have cancer. Of course, I can’t show that face to patients because I need to put on my strong one to give them hope, even though it tears me up inside.
When you think we aren’t listening, it might because we are processing how to tell you something. Telling a patient they have a bad disease is never an easy thing. But, through our experience, we know that diagnosis is going to alter your life. You may have walked into my exam room smiling and thinking of your next vacation, but walk out crying and planning your visit to the oncologist. While I try to answer your questions and give you hope, I secretly hate the doctor inside who just destroyed part of your world.
Your patients are rating you online: How to respond. Manage your online reputation: A social media guide. Find out how.
