On Being a Physician

Abstract

November 2006

Section Clinical Essentials

1 On Being a Physician

David C. Dale, M.D., F.A.C.P.
Professor of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine

Daniel D. Federman, M.D., M.A.C.P.
The Carl W. Walter Distinguished Professor of Medicine and Medical Education and Senior Dean for Alumni Relations and Clinical Teaching, Harvard Medical School

Being a physician is both exciting and satisfying; it provides a unique opportunity to combine modern scientific knowledge with the traditions of an ancient and honored profession in serving and helping one's fellow man. Although much about a physician's work remains the same-recognizing illness, providing advice and comfort, relieving pain and suffering, and dealing with illness and death-much has changed. Better medical record keeping, quantitative observation, meticulous experimentation, and carefully conducted clinical trials contributed to the rapid evolution of medical practice in the 20th century. This chapter discusses the attributes required to be a physician and the new challenges and responsibilities that are changing the way physicians practice medicine.

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