surgeons' relationships with patients

[snuffy]

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I'm wondering--from your observations & experience--how you would characterize surgeons' interactions with their patients. I know this depends on the case and that it's hard to make generalizations, but I guess that's what I'm looking for. How many times does a surgeon interact with a patient? Over how long a period of time? Do surgeons ever get to know their patients in the way a family physician might? Which subspecialties facilitate more or less interaction/longer or shorter relationships?

 

[The White Coat Investor]

If you're seriously interested in the answer to this question, you're in the wrong forum.

 

[fourthyear]

generally it's a shorter-term relationship if things go smoothly with the surgery. But they dont' always, there are complications, or they need another operation or they are found to have cancer, etc. And even if not, even simple straightforward procedures may involve a few days stay in the hospital under the surgeon's care. I'd say surgeons have plenty opportunity to get to know at least some of their patients pretty well. The patient has to know them enought trust them to cut into them too, right?

Do a surgery rotation and you will see - there is a lot more patient interaction involved than you probably think. One should not do surgery if they aren't interested in building relationships with patients.

 

[snuffy]

Thanks for your input, fourthyear. That's what I was hoping to hear. I'm looking forward to the rotation next year.