The Chair's Small Joys | Shohei Onishi (Chair, Graduate School of Health Management)
2008.03.14
As a physician, I wish for my patients' happiness, for them to recover from their illnesses, and to return to a daily life full of hope. While this may seem like a matter of course, I feel an immense sense of joy when I am able to achieve this through my own involvement with my patients. I am not currently working at a hospital, so I have no opportunities to interact with patients on the wards. What I am about to describe happened a long time ago.
When I was a resident fresh out of medical school, I made it a point to do my rounds before the patients' breakfast. I often heard patients say things like, "Doctor, that's a lovely tie you're wearing today," or "I look forward to seeing your different ties every day." I was surprised to realize how closely patients observe the demeanor and behavior of us physicians. It was also a small joy for me to be able to please my patients in such a way. Sadly, though, the cost of buying shirts and ties was not insignificant.
Apparently, I always have a sullen look on my face. I often get feedback that I seem unapproachable, intimidating, or difficult to talk to. I sometimes seriously wonder why, but I want to emphasize that I am never like that in front of my patients. Or rather, when a physician proactively smiles at a patient and the patient smiles back, I feel that this can lead to good communication. This is a precious small joy for me. I am always reminded of the importance of how we approach patients who are constantly anxious and unsure of what to do.
The Sports Clinic at Keio University Hospital has a more relaxed atmosphere compared to a general outpatient clinic, making it an ideal outpatient setting for me.
(Date Published: 2008/03/14)