By Edward B. Lipp, MD

I had my mentorship with Dr. Raymond Curtis in 1968 in Baltimore. Probably the most enduring thing I learned was how to handle a disgruntled patient. Many treatment concepts change with time, this advice, however, is as valid today as it was 50 years ago.

Be understanding.  Arrogance is a killer.  You want the patient to appreciate that you are sincerely interested in their improvement. The problem may be trivial to you but if the patient is upset you are in trouble. Even though you cannot cure the condition you may help the patient with small treatments.  Even if the patient was noncompliant you need to show empathy. The patient needs to understand that you sincerely care about them.  Key point: let the patient be the one to decide that they don’t want to see you anymore.  They come to realize that nothing more can be done.  They drift off into the sunset but they do not go away mad.  I hope this advice helps you avoid some sleepless nights.

In the two groups that I practiced with all surgeons were required to take general orthopedic ER call.  I had one extremely small outpatient suit in 50 years.  It was so small that the insurance company would not allow me to take it to court.

Sincerely,
Edward B. Lipp, MD