I have patients ask me about politics occasionally, some to get a rise out of me, others to bond because it is pretty obvious we are if like mind. And then there are the ones who do want to have a conversation. I am not as comfortable chatting with those that I know don’t see the issues the same, but I do try to give them my perspective as a doctor doing her best patients. Thanks for a great article.
I wouldn't be opposed to talking about voting in this context, although I *would* be surprised to have a doctor bring it up. I don't think I'd feel the conversation was meaningful, largely because that 15-minute limit, for me, precludes feeling any sense of actual safety and connection.
One thing I wish doctors would talk about *more* is policy related to medical care. I'm fascinated by that kind of conversation, and I love to have access to discussion partners who have both direct expertise and skin in the game. I learn so much that way. Again though with that 15-minute limit being a major blocker to deep conversation.
I think the way you handle it is great, but I think I would be uncomfortable with it, no matter how close my relationship with my doctor. Where I live is pretty red, so I keep my guard up. Also the mention of voting would heighten my anxiety about the upcoming election.
I have patients ask me about politics occasionally, some to get a rise out of me, others to bond because it is pretty obvious we are if like mind. And then there are the ones who do want to have a conversation. I am not as comfortable chatting with those that I know don’t see the issues the same, but I do try to give them my perspective as a doctor doing her best patients. Thanks for a great article.
Makes perfect sense.
I wouldn't be opposed to talking about voting in this context, although I *would* be surprised to have a doctor bring it up. I don't think I'd feel the conversation was meaningful, largely because that 15-minute limit, for me, precludes feeling any sense of actual safety and connection.
One thing I wish doctors would talk about *more* is policy related to medical care. I'm fascinated by that kind of conversation, and I love to have access to discussion partners who have both direct expertise and skin in the game. I learn so much that way. Again though with that 15-minute limit being a major blocker to deep conversation.
I think the way you handle it is great, but I think I would be uncomfortable with it, no matter how close my relationship with my doctor. Where I live is pretty red, so I keep my guard up. Also the mention of voting would heighten my anxiety about the upcoming election.
Thanks for sharing..totally makes sense.