Helen Salisbury: A feeling of safety

Recently, I consulted with a satisfied patient. An unexpected abnormality had shown up on a blood test, and further tests at the GP surgery led to an urgent referral to a hospital clinic. The patient was seen within a few days, more tests organised, and explanations given, with a promise of telephone follow-up and a treatment plan in 10 days. At a time of great uncertainty my patient reported feeling safe and looked after, knowing that the doctor she saw was fully engaged with her case and care.As individuals, we aspire to be that clinician—the one who earns the trust of their patients and makes them feel confident that all of the right things are being done. We can’t always cure, and our ability to relieve suffering also has its limits, but we should be able to reassure patients that we’ll do all we can, that the very best of…
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