Cardiovascular Surgeon, Baptist health Medical Center
“A life worth living is one where each day is an opportunity to leave the world a little better than we found it. It’s about finding satisfaction and fulfillment in our work, knowing that what we do makes a meaningful contribution to others. For those of us in medicine, this often means helping people not only prolong their lives but also improve the quality of those lives. By teaching them how to care for their most precious asset—their health—we uphold values that stem from our upbringing, environment, and education.
A good physician embodies qualities such as empathy, active listening, and a commitment to their patients’ well-being. They take the time to answer questions, ensure understanding, and always act with their patients’ best interests at heart.
The trajectory of our lives is shaped by a combination of factors, but as doctors, we have the unique ability to influence the course of our patients' lives by setting realistic expectations and encouraging lifestyle changes. This involves not just treating the patient but also engaging their families and friends, helping them become allies in the healing process.
Incorporating a pluralistic approach to medicine, one that includes not just conventional treatments but also spirituality, religion, and holistic lifestyle changes, can offer the most comprehensive care. Empathy and compassionate listening are not just nice-to-have qualities; they are essential practices for every doctor, as they form the foundation of a trusting and healing doctor-patient relationship.”