What makes Family Med worth it
Pt who can barely speak English who I caught renal cell carcinoma on via ultrasound: I really do not want surgery, but I want to know what you think
Me: well based on the reports from your nephrologist and oncologist that I’ve seen, I think if this biopsy leads to them recommending it, then you should
Me: *proceeds to educate him about literally everything I know about RCC and his outlook if they excise it with no metastasis vs if he leaves it too long*
Him: I know my specialists said the same thing but I trust what you say even more. I like you and I trust you and I will do whatever you recommend
NEVER underestimate your impact, especially in Family Medicine. Building that rapport of trust and sometimes friendship with patients may be the tipping point in them doing what must be done to save their life one day.