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In this episode, we delve into the unique and often unspoken dynamics of physician-patient relationships, particularly when both parties are healthcare professionals. Building on previous insights shared by Claire Hutton regarding primary care physicians' experiences with fellow doctors, I invite my own family physician, Dr. Marc Lewin, to engage in a candid conversation about our 20-year relationship. Together, we aim to uncover the "elephant in the room" — the expectations and shared knowledge that complicate our interactions.
We begin by reflecting on our individual experiences and mutual understanding as physicians. Dr. Lewin, with over 30 years of medical practice and significant humanitarian work abroad, shares his perspective on the honor he feels when treating a fellow doctor. He acknowledges that many physician patients often come in already armed with knowledge and perhaps preconceived notions about their care. This leads to an interesting dialogue about how physicians, even those with extensive training, can sometimes struggle to express vulnerability when discussing their health.
Throughout our conversation, we focus on the subtleties of communication that shape our relationship. I share how I've occasionally hesitated to bring up anxieties related to my health, fearing that as a physician, I should already take care of these issues myself. Dr. Lewin reveals his own reservations about addressing sensitive topics within our doctor-patient dynamic, such as mental health and lifestyle discussions, ultimately voicing the importance of establishing an open dialogue.
We explore the impact of shared experiences on our assessments of one another's health. I admit to the anxiety that sometimes accompanies my visits to him, driven by my knowledge of medical symptoms, while he addresses the delicate balance between providing patient-centered care and ensuring that I receive evidence-based recommendations. Dr. Lewin emphasizes that his role is not just to be a doctor but a partner in my health journey, directly confronting the misconception that physician patients need less thorough care.
In a thoughtful exchange, we analyze our past interactions, where he assures me that he has never felt the need to overshoot testing or treatment based solely on my physician status. Instead, he aims to provide the best personalized care possible, and I express gratitude for the respectful and collegial approach he has maintained over the years. Our conversation transitions to offering advice for new physicians: the necessity to approach every patient—regardless of their background—with compassion, curiosity, and a commitment to quality care.
As the episode draws to a close, we reflect on the trust built over years of mutual respect and understanding. I express how being able to share our thoughts candidly enhances not only our professional rapport but also our friendship. We close with gratitude towards each other, recognizing the unique position we hold as both doctors and as individuals invested in one another's well-being, paving the way for further meaningful conversations in the future.
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