what I learned about being a physician

I did not get that much interaction with the physicians, but I still picked up a few things. I learned that appointments are cancelled because appointments are made up to 4 months in advance, and conferences and other events come up. At first I thought it was rude of the physicians, but when I heard a physician say he felt bad, it made me feel a little better. I just wish that there could either avoid cancellations or have options for patients in serious need (if they do have other options, they should inform the crabby lady so she doesn’t jeopardize the health of patients).

I also learned that there can be some tension between the nurses and nursing assistants towards physicians. The RNAs often bring bagels in for each other and place them in the back room. However one day the homemade treats brought by an RNA were missing, and I heard one RNA say to another in a condescending voice, “I found them in the doctor’s dictation room. They think they can do anything.” During my time there, they switched to a more paperless system. I asked a nurse how everyone liked it. She said, “I think most people like them, but I don’t think the surgeons do because they are lazy and don’t want to do a little extra work.” I sensed some tension between the two groups. I hope to have harmony between me and everyone I interact with as a physician and make known my respect towards them.

I learned that physicians need to adapt to the administrative changes, including new computers and software. I saw an older doctor learning from a younger doctor how to use a new software program. I thought the question would have been answered in less than a minute, but they were at the computer for over 10 minutes. I could tell that the older physician was getting frustrated and didn’t like change.

While sitting next to an intern who was filling out paperwork, he told me about what the different codes meant. He told me that so many code blues (emergency) have been ironically called in the eye clinic, one of the least serious clinics. I was able to ask him about his route to his residency. I also learned from him and many of the other that there is lots of paperwork involved in being a physician, nurse, or RNA.