My first patient in the program was the most meaningful relationship, we will call her “Sally Great”. Our relationship grew gradually, marked by small, meaningful moments that left a lasting impression. Although we could not use words to communicate with each other, we understood each other’s hearts most importantly. She taught me how to love without words and cherish every moment I had with her until her last. When she passed, our connection still remained strong, and this relationship would be one that I look back on when I become a health provider. This relationship has helped me in becoming a well rounded doctor as she helped me further develop my skills of being compassionate, being an active listener, and respecting every patient’s dignity and wishes, even in a vulnerable time that they are going through.
These experiences have led me to grow as an individual. Before I started the program I was not sure about how I would handle patients transitioning and passing on. I was an individual who was scared of death and or could not even talk about it. Going through this program has made me understand that it is a natural occurring process that should not be feared, yet embraced. The individuals going through this process are scared themselves and it would be ideal if we could offer a comforting hand to those who are in this transition in their lives. This has led me to relate my growth in this program to my own purpose in life in my future career in the medical field. Having a physician being compassionate, an active listener, and respecting every patient’s dignity and wishes, even in a vulnerable time that they are going through is fundamental in the medical field.
Going through this program has held great value as I flip the page to the next chapter of my life into a career in the medical field. It has influenced my perspective of what a good physician is, addressing morality and having challenging conversations while also being able to navigate through them as well. This program has given me something that I will carry on in my future practice. Medical professionals often face the challenge of addressing not only the physical health of patients but also their dignity, autonomy, and emotional well-being. I came to a realization that simply extending life is not always the most compassionate or effective course of action, as this neglects the emotional side of the patient and their family. Instead, we should encourage fostering open communication with patients and families, asking the right questions, and guiding them in making quality informed decisions are essential aspects of providing quality care. This realization lead to the reinforced importance of empathy, clear communication, and shared decision-making in my desire to pursue a career in medicine.
In all, highlighting the importance of patient-centered care and respecting individual values and goals, particularly when those goals shift from curing illness to improving quality of life is the best perspective to have to be all in all well- rounded physician. As I progress towards my medical school journey, I recognize that understanding death and dying is as crucial as understanding disease and recovery. Thanks to this program, it has provided me with a deeper understanding of the more complexities of patient care and reinforced my commitment in to providing the best possible holistic, empathetic care in my future practice.