Thanks Ed,
Good points.
I think the physical exam is far, far more valuable than we collectively think.
In addition to bonding, physical findings, and better communication that you mention there are other psychological benefits such as the effects of the laying on of hands," enhancing trust, with also "the extra time taken with the physical to allow patients to think of other vital history and symptoms, and maybe eventually reducing litigation if a well conducted physical has been undertaken? Would seem to be a win, win, win situation.
When we do do a physical what is the average time taken these days?
Has that time been donated to the computer?
Rob Bell, M.D.
Original Message:
Sent: 9/1/2020 5:36:00 PM
From: Edward Hoffer
Subject: RE: The Disappearance of the Primary Care Physical Examination—Losing Touch | Humanities | JAMA Internal Medicine | JAMA Network
Does the physical exam OFTEN result in findings that change the diagnosis? No, but it sometimes does and is risk-free and relatively inexpensive. It also strengthens the patient-physician bond, which may lead to better communication.
Ed
Edward P Hoffer MD, FACP, FACC
Sent from my iPhone
Original Message:
Sent: 9/1/2020 5:30:00 PM
From: David Meyers
Subject: The Disappearance of the Primary Care Physical Examination—Losing Touch | Humanities | JAMA Internal Medicine | JAMA Network
Some pertinent observations about a staple in the life of a physician:
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2769550?guestAccessKey=76c7263f-4291-4e98-b4e6-45dab7e6ffb6&utm_source=silverchair&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=article_alert-jamainternalmedicine&utm_term=mostread&utm_content=olf-widget_09012020
David
David L Meyers, MD, MBE, FACEP
Sinai Hospital of Baltimore - Former Chief, Emergency Medicine;
Society to Improve Diagnosis in Medicine - Board member; Chair, Governance Committee; Board Liaison-Patient Engagement Committee
Johns Hopkins University - Adjunct faculty