Noting the Death of Christopher Hitchens from Esophageal Cancer

The author is saddened to learn that Christopher Hitchens died late yesterday evening at the age of 62, roughly a year and a half after receiving a diagnosis of esophageal cancer. He was a prolific and articulate man; I respected him for his words. His essays on the language and cancer might be of particular […]

Posted in language, Life as a writer, Medical News, Oncology (cancer)Tagged , , , , , 3 Comments on Noting the Death of Christopher Hitchens from Esophageal Cancer

‘Cutting For Stone,’ and Considering the Experience of Practicing Medicine

A short note on Cutting for Stone, a novel I’ve just read by Dr. Abraham Verghese. He’s an expert clinician and professor at Stanford. The author uses rich language to detail aspects of Ethiopian history, medicine and quirks of human nature. The book’s a bit long but a page-turner, like some lives, taking a strange […]

Posted in Books, language, Life as a Doctor, Quote of the DayTagged , , , , , , , , 2 Comments on ‘Cutting For Stone,’ and Considering the Experience of Practicing Medicine

Why the Term ‘Patient’ Is So Important in Health Care

roviding health care is or should be unlike other commercial transactions. The doctor, or other person who gives medical treatment, has a special professional and moral obligation to help the person who’s receiving his or her care. This responsibility – to heal, honestly and to the best of one’s ability – overrides any other commitments, or conflicts

Posted in Communication, Essential Lessons, language, Medical Ethics, Patient-Doctor RelationshipTagged , , , , , , 9 Comments on Why the Term ‘Patient’ Is So Important in Health Care
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