Patient care From medical skeptic to grateful and compliant: My recent patient’s transformation I was blown away by the turnaround I recently witnessed in a patient who was diagnosed with breast cancer. Feb. 1, 2022TuesdayFebruary 2022 issue Art of Medicine Erin O'Laughlin, DO Erin O’Laughlin, DO, is a happily married family physician with five kids and a thriving private practice who blogs at Cornucopia. Contact Dr. O'Laughlin
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Dr. O’Laughlin, thank you for sharing this story of hope. As medical students, interns, residents, and later as physicians we have to learn the lesson of respect for our patient’s autonomy. Even when we might disagree with their decision. We all must learn and practice that respect. As a semi-retired radiation oncologist, whose mother was dignosed with breast cancer in 2003, I have seen the apprehension one the faces of patients facing a cancer diagnosis. Your patients are fortunate. Feb. 27, 2022, at 6:17 pm Reply
Wow! Beautiful story. I think this demonstrates the amazing work patients can do on their own when we respect their space, their boundaries, and their process. You did all that while letting her know you were still present and available to support her. Strong work Dr. O’Laughlin! I’m inspired. Mar. 3, 2022, at 12:40 pm Reply