The Language of Medicine: " Wits occasionally describe England and the U.S. as two countries separated by a common language. I feel one might say a similar thing about doctor and patient. As a former English major, I spend perhaps more time than most observing the language of this profession. I find myself uneasy at times with the transition I am making, at an almost alarming pace, from viewing medicine through the eyes of a patient to seeing it with those of a physician."
Both doctors and patients can learn a lot from medical students, as they pass from one world ( of the layperson) to another ( that of the medical professional).
How true you are! Check out what children in hospitals say about the language and approach of physicians...www.lehman.cuny.edu/bandaides
ReplyDeleteThird column on the sitemap, in section for health professionals (tips to doctors from the bandaide experts)
Best, Joan Fleitas
Associate Professor of Nursing