It made me think about a cruel irony that could present a barrier to the recognition of depression in primary care. The physician may view the patient as being ungrateful for his or her fortunate circumstances, and the patient's guilt, symptomatic of depression, could be compounded. Medicine has clearly benefited from some aspects of technology. But while technological advances may allow doctors to spend more time with some patients, other patients may be excluded due to lack of computer knowledge and insufficient means. Poised at the end of my career, I am glad that my own practice will not be affected by these changes.
Patients respond differently to treatment and require diverse styles of healing.
Here is a letter I received from a patient of mine recently. Comparing stories about our doctors has become a standard part of our visit. Last week, I explained to him that my new doctor isn't part of a larger pool of physicians. At her office, it's just a doctor, a nurse, and a secretary. My doctor and I have actually learned to recognize one another and can pick each other out across a crowded room.