Dr. Julie Oyler talks about the art of balancing social and medical care for older patients. She reflects on how her approach has evolved, from the early days of handwritten notes to today’s tech-assisted visits, and how she’s learned to keep the focus on the person behind the chart. She shares the tug-of-war between efficiency and empathy, the challenge of managing family dynamics in the exam room, and the rewards of long-term relationships that span decades of care. Thoughtful, humble, and a little funny, this one feels close to home for every clinician.
Dr. Jason Alexander joins Dr. Adam Cifu to discuss how the doctor–patient relationship evolves once you’re no longer a new physician. He reflects on the confidence that comes with experience, knowing when to listen and when to step in, and how caring for colleagues and families adds both complexity and meaning. He also shares how embracing uncertainty and being genuine help build trust.
Join us for a conversation with hematologist–oncologist and geneticist Dr. Michael Drazer for a wide-ranging discussion on caring for people with hereditary blood and cancer syndromes, including patients with leukemia. He talks about how watching mentors with very different bedside styles influenced how his approach to the doctor–patient relationship has evolved throughout his career. We also discuss how Dr. Drazer’s clinical work guides his team’s research, shifting the focus from ‘blue sky’ science to studies grounded in his patients’ real-world challenges.
This episode dives into the real-life evolution of the doctor–patient relationship through the eyes of a senior physician. Dr. Alex Lickerman shares how decades in medicine have shaped his approach to balancing authority and empathy while moving toward more relaxed, genuine conversations. He also explains why building trust with patients matters more now than ever, especially in the face of widespread patient misinformation. He reflects on moments where taking the lead, sometimes what might feel paternalistic, can help families make difficult, life-and-death decisions with clarity and compassion. The talk touches on the unique skills needed to care for patients at the end of life. Along the way, you will hear honest takes on the quirks and frustrations that come with the job.
In this season finale episode, Dr. Adam Cifu sits down with transplant nephrologist Dr. Michelle Josephson to explore the unique challenges and opportunities that arise in the later stages of an academic medical career. Dr. Josephson openly discusses the struggle to maintain a sense of relevance, the need to redefine one's priorities and goals, and the bittersweet experience of losing colleagues to retirement and passing. However, she also highlights the freedom and excitement that can come with this transitional phase, allowing her to pursue new global initiatives in areas like green nephrology. This provides an insightful look at navigating the "third phase" of a distinguished career.
In this episode, we speak with Dr. Jennifer Brokaw about her varied and impressive career in medicine. Dr. Brokaw shares how she transitioned from emergency medicine into founding a private practice focused on advanced illness management and end-of-life care, driven by a desire to tackle complex societal challenges she witnessed in the ER. She discusses the unique value she was able to provide as an independent advocate for patients and families, as well as the challenges of building a sustainable business model around these services. Dr. Brokaw's insights offer a fascinating look at alternative paths for doctors beyond traditional clinical roles. This conversation provides an engaging glimpse into one physician's remarkable career journey.
In this final installment of our series talking with medical trainees, we're joined by Dr. Ava Ferguson Bryan, a general surgery resident at the University of Chicago. Dr. Ferguson Bryan shares her winding path to medicine, from initially pursuing English and art history, to discovering a passion for surgery during her clinical rotations.
She provides an honest look at the challenges and sacrifices of surgical training, including the lengthy 7-8 year commitment and the impact on work-life balance, especially as a woman having children during residency. Dr. Ferguson Bryan also discusses the evolving landscape of surgical education, including competency-based assessments that may allow for more flexibility in training duration.
This episode offers valuable insights for aspiring physicians navigating the realities of surgical specialties and the broader effort to diversify the field. Dr. Ferguson Bryan's personal experience provides a nuanced perspective on the progress made, as well as the work still needed to support the next generation of surgeon-trainees.
Gaining an inside look at the realities of medical training, this episode features a conversation with Layne Keating, a chief medical resident at the University of Chicago. Layne shares her experiences navigating the transition from medical school at the Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University to residency, highlighting the importance of being given autonomy and the ability to make real clinical decisions.
She explains how this hands-on responsibility, even with the support of her team, has been critical for developing the confidence and problem-solving skills needed to be an effective physician. Layne contrasts this with concerns that overprotecting trainees from having to make tough choices during their education can make the leap to independent practice much more difficult.
The conversation also touches on the use of letters of recommendation in the residency application process. Layne and Dr. Adam Cifu discuss how more holistic, thoughtful approaches may be needed to evaluate the suitability of medical trainees.
This transparent discussion provides a unique perspective on the highs and lows of the clinical training journey, as well as insights into improving medical education to better prepare the next generation of physicians.
To read more:
https://medicine.qu.edu/
https://www.sensible-med.com/p/letters-of-recommendation-should-fb0
In this episode, we continue our series exploring the experiences of medical trainees. Dr. Adam Cifu is joined by Arman Shahriar, MD, a third-year internal medicine resident at the University of Chicago. Arman shares his nontraditional path to medicine, including teaching in Ecuador and working in the medical device industry. He provides a candid look at residency life, from the grueling schedules to the unexpected challenges and the camaraderie forged during training.
Arman is also the author of two compelling articles: On One-Liners and Doing No Harm, which explores the power of language in patient care, and The Wrong Fight—Prior Authorization, a personal account of navigating systemic barriers.
To read Dr. Shahriar's above-mentioned articles, check them out here:
• On One-Liners and Doing No Harm: https://journals.lww.com/academicmedicine/fulltext/2023/10000/on_one_liners_and_doing_no_harm.24.aspx
• The Wrong Fight—Prior Authorization: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaoncology/article-abstract/2813580
Kicking off a series of talks with people in medical training, this episode features third-year student Nihar Rama discussing his experiences and insights so far. Nihar discusses how his personal background as a patient has shaped his empathetic approach to caring for patients. He reflects on the importance of maintaining confidence while also expressing humility, and the challenges of developing strong interpersonal skills alongside medical knowledge. Nihar offers thoughtful perspectives on how medical education could better assess and cultivate the human qualities, beyond just academic acumen, that are essential for becoming an excellent clinician.
In this episode, Dr. Adam Cifu sits down with Dr. Chadi Nabhan—a hematologist, oncologist, author, and healthcare leader—to discuss his inspiring career transitions and his latest book, The Cancer Journey: Understanding Diagnosis, Treatment, Recovery, and Prevention. They explore the phases of a cancer diagnosis, the emotional toll on patients and caregivers, and the critical role of communication and second opinions. Dr. Nabhan also shares insights from his work at a company advancing AI technology to accelerate clinical trials. He is also the author of Toxic Exposure: The True Story Behind the Monsanto Trials and the Search for Justice.
To learn more about Dr. Nabhan's The Cancer Journey and read an article about the book, visit ASCO Connection: https://connection.asco.org/magazine/features/cancer-journey-dr-chadi-nabhan-uses-storytelling-plain-language-simplify-complex.
In this episode, we speak with Dr. Dee Fenner, the first recipient of the Bucksbaum National Award for Clinical Excellence. A trailblazer in the field of urogynecology, Dr. Fenner shares her remarkable journey - from being one of the few women in her medical school class to becoming a nationally recognized expert in pelvic floor disorders and reconstructive surgery.
Dr. Fenner discusses how she found her passion in obstetrics and gynecology, and how she helped advance the burgeoning field of urogynecology. She reflects on the importance of creating a safe, comfortable environment for her vulnerable patients, and the challenges of training the next generation of surgeons.
As she looks to the future, Dr. Fenner is both excited and apprehensive about how data science and AI will impact patient care. At the same time, she remains focused on mentoring her colleagues and ensuring her department's continued success.
In this episode, Dr. Adam Cifu sits down with Dr. Micah Prochaska to explore the intricate ethical dilemmas surrounding end-of-life care. They delve into the complex issues of patient autonomy, relational autonomy, and the role of families in these deeply personal decisions. Through thought-provoking discussion, they challenge the traditional frameworks and reveal the nuances in balancing medical expertise, personal values, and the well-being of patients and their loved ones. This episode offers a poignant and insightful examination of the ethical quandaries faced by healthcare providers when guiding patients and families through the end-of-life journey.
Dr. Prochaska also references a highly influential paper by Daniel P. Sulmasy, MD, PhD, and Lois Snyder, JD, titled "Substituted Interests and Best Judgments: An Integrated Model of Surrogate Decision Making.
URL: https://tinyurl.com/yc2y9u5j
How do you measure clinical excellence?
Host Dr. Adam Cifu welcomes guest Dr. Anna Volerman to discuss the realities of clinical excellence, diving deep into the challenges of delivering impactful care beyond clinic walls. Dr. Volerman candidly shares her experiences with self-doubt, the importance of understanding patients' daily environments, and her work to address health inequities. Dr. Cifu adds thought-provoking insights on the art of medicine, as together they explore the shift from merely treating patients to transforming systems for better health outcomes. This episode offers a heartfelt look into healthcare's complexities, making it a must-listen for those passionate about medicine’s future.
In this episode, Dr. Adam Cifu chats with Dr. Wei Wei Lee about the essence of clinical excellence, which she defines as the importance of shared vulnerability and meaningful human connection in patient care. Dr. Lee reflects on how advancements in artificial intelligence can threaten these connections if they prioritize efficiency over personal interaction. Join them as they discuss the evolving landscape of medicine and the challenge of maintaining empathy in a technology-driven world.
Dive deeper into the fascinating conversations from this episode with two must-see resources related to the themes discussed:
What does it take to practice excellent nursing in a busy primary care setting?
In this insightful episode, Adam Cifu, MD, sits down with Sybil Caruthers, RN, a nurse with 38 years of experience and a recipient of the Nursing Professional Excellence Award. They discuss the core elements of clinical excellence in nursing, focusing on the vital importance of collaboration and communication among healthcare professionals.
Sybil shares her unique journey into the profession, which began unexpectedly. From her early days as an oncology triage nurse to her current role in primary care, she highlights the importance of patient advocacy and adapting to the growing demands of healthcare.
Join us as we explore the lessons learned from their journey and the transformative power of teamwork in improving patient outcomes.
Dr. Victoria Barbosa, an expert in dermatology and director of the Hair Loss Program at the University of Chicago, explores the challenges in the patient-doctor relationship within dermatology and alopecia. This episode highlights the impact of cultural understanding and diversity in patient care, including race concordance and discordant care. Dr. Barbosa provides insights into the psychological aspects of hair loss and the importance of empathetic, hopeful communication, while also discussing the role of these factors in fostering strong, trusting patient relationships.
A conversation exploring clinical excellence in physical therapy, examining its crucial role within primary care. This discussion delves into how these elements contribute to exceptional patient outcomes, while also acknowledging the importance of empathy and patient rapport.
We've all heard grand predictions about how AI will transform the future of medicine. But what about the here and now? In this episode, we dive into the ways AI is already reshaping healthcare. Discover how these technologies are not just promises for tomorrow, but are making an impact today. Tune in to explore the exciting developments happening right now and what they mean for the future of medicine.
Dr. Lisa Vinci joins the Clinical Excellence Podcast to discuss the nuances of quality measures in primary care. Delve into the complexities of healthcare metrics and their impact on patient care, with insights on navigating between standardized measures and personalized medicine.