In the search of broadening my own educational horizons I commonly read and watch new content. I’ll use this space to express my views on these topics along with how they could impact the writing of the micro and macro health stories within our society. One of my favourite methods of sourcing this information is watching online Ted talks. For anyone thats unaware “TED is a nonprofit devoted to spreading ideas, usually in the form of short, powerful talks (18 minutes or less).”My two favourite aspects of TED are the convenience of access and diversity of speakers that provide their expert opinion regarding the topic.
“It’s Science”
Recently I watched a Ted-X talk posted within the last month titled “Why Curiosity is the Key to Science & Medicine” that featured Kevin B.Jones. Kevin is an American Surgeon that treats one of the rarest forms of cancerous tumours called Sarcomas. Sarcomas affect the bone and soft tissue and thus leads to him having to encounter tough clinical decisions with his patients on a daily basis. Just like the words of Ron Burgundy it was the combination of Science and Medicine that initially drew me to the video however early into it I realised I would be hooked for another reason.
That it is Ron…That it is!
Are you Curious & Humble?
Kevin in his talk is discussing the link between science & medicine and the importance of certain vital skills within our health professionals. He expresses that curiosity and humility are traits we should seek in our professionals as this is what allows us to truely find answers for the questions we have about about our health. Vehemently agreeing with his observation that our health clinics are starting to look more and more like Jiffy Lube centres we really don’t have a textbook on any ailment we may come into contact with. This is as health and medicine is ever changing and depends on the individual circumstances of you, the patient. I have always felt that the only way we create true changes within peoples lives is to really engage with these circumstances (curiosity) and by asking someone else or sourcing more knowledge if we are unsure of the answer (humility). If we are concerned more about the time on the clock or our reputation rather than the person in front of us, then we are missing the important details.
Booking in soon? Don’t forget the express service
Control the Pen
The other vital part that really stood out to me was the way Kevin empowers his patients in their treatment. We as health professionals can get caught (I am not immune to this) in being so confident in our knowledge and so sure of our diagnosis that we subconsciously take power away from you. By adding in simple words such as “Might have” to the sentence “I got it all” and adding the analogy of treatment as an “experiment” it creates an inclusive treatment experience. As a result its possible to see that the patient then has an avenue to be aware what aspects of the treatment to look out for as to indicate a successful “experiment”, making them more autonomous in the process of writing their health novel. There is nothing wrong in being a confident practitioner however always be aware that the book of medicine is never closed. As a result of watching this talk the last few days I have curiously incorporated the experiment analogy in my discussions with clients and the buy in on their behalf can be measured by the looks on their faces. It can also be seen within their immediate actions and occurs because I didn’t plug in my diagnostics tool, I went back to basics and listened.
Help From the Bench
Obviously this comes today from Kevin and his impassioned speech & views on having open discussions with his patients. If he can have these types of chats in difficult situations then surely it’s possible for us to incorporate a bit more curiosity & humility within our daily practices.
BryceFinck.com 