The Patient as a Human Being: How Doctors and Patients Can Work Together to Create a Healing Relationship

Introduction

In her groundbreaking book, The Patient as a Human Being, Rachel Naomi Remen, M.D., offers a profound new vision of the doctor-patient relationship. She argues that the current medical system, with its emphasis on technology and efficiency, has lost sight of the human dimension of healing. As a result, patients often feel isolated, powerless, and afraid.

Remen believes that the key to creating a more healing relationship between doctors and patients is to recognize the patient as a whole person, not just a collection of symptoms. This means taking the time to listen to patients' stories, understand their fears and hopes, and respect their values. It also means being willing to share power with patients and involve them in their own care.

The Patient's Story

Remen begins the book by telling the story of a patient named Sarah. Sarah is a young woman who has been diagnosed with cancer. She is scared, angry, and confused. She doesn't understand what is happening to her body, and she doesn't know what the future holds.

Sarah's doctor is a kind and compassionate man, but he is also very busy. He doesn't have time to listen to Sarah's story, and he doesn't seem to understand her fears. Sarah feels like she is just a number to him, and she doesn't feel like he is really interested in her as a person.

The Healing Relationship

Remen argues that the healing relationship is essential for patients to get better. When patients feel supported and understood by their doctors, they are more likely to comply with their treatment plans and to experience positive outcomes.

There are many things that doctors can do to create a healing relationship with their patients. Some of these things include:

• Listening to patients' stories. This is one of the most important things that doctors can do. When patients feel like they are being heard, they feel more understood and supported.
• Empathizing with patients. Doctors need to be able to put themselves in their patients' shoes and understand what they are going through. This allows them to provide more compassionate and effective care.
• Respecting patients' values. Doctors need to respect their patients' values and beliefs, even if they don't agree with them. This means allowing patients to make their own decisions about their care.
• Sharing power with patients. Doctors need to be willing to share power with their patients and involve them in their own care. This gives patients a sense of control and empowerment, which can help them to heal.

Conclusion

The Patient as a Human Being is a powerful and moving book that offers a new vision of the doctor-patient relationship. Remen argues that the key to creating a more healing relationship is to recognize the patient as a whole person, not just a collection of symptoms. When doctors take the time to listen to patients' stories, empathize with them, and respect their values, they can create a healing environment that helps patients to get better.

Why You Should Read This Book

If you are a doctor, nurse, or other healthcare professional, I urge you to read this book. It will change the way you think about your patients and the way you practice medicine.

If you are a patient, this book will help you to understand the importance of the doctor-patient relationship and how you can work with your doctor to create a healing environment.

The Patient as a Human Being is a must-read for anyone who cares about health and healing.