The more I’ve thought about it, the more I have become convinced that going into medicine is a peculiar desire. Sure, people may envision a glamorous, “Grey’s Anatomy” career, the potential for a lucrative income and high status, or maybe even advanced technology toys when they dream of a future in healthcare. But, when you really get down to it, practicing medicine is deeply human – encompassing all of humanity’s extravagance and simplicity.
You see, I am convinced that the human body is, perhaps, the most intricate testament to our Creator. The very idea that the body develops within another and has the capacity to survive, regulate, and respond to changes (with every minuscule, specialized cell involved) leaves me in awe. I also find myself in awe of the technology that has developed from science’s understanding of the body’s processes; it is incredible to think of the diseases we now understand and treat that, even as recently as 100 years ago, were considered death sentences. There is no doubt, medicine’s call to understand and treat the human body is a tall order – an extravagant calling.
I unashamedly admit that I am genuinely excited when I get to describe things like the Cardiac Cycle down to the smallest details. But, despite my fascination with the inner-workings of the body, I realize that the majority of patients who experience disease do not consider or care about the incredible and complex processes occurring within themselves. The experience of illness is entirely human and deeply emotional. Patients are more than a bed number or a disease; they are people who desire understanding and human interaction with those around them.
This human experience of illness is why I believe that practicing medicine ought to be simple. Yes, I hope that my doctor has a thorough understanding of science, and I plan to do the same for my patients one day. But it isn’t hard to see that, among the plethora of medical advancements and technologies that are now available, patients are easily lost in the system. Clear communication and openness to understanding a patient’s background and experience are rare gems within the culture of modern medicine.
I believe with all my heart that healthcare providers have a unique opportunity to meet the most basic of human needs and to participate in the intimate experience of healing. A high calling which, perhaps, begins with a willingness to accept suffering as a part of human nature, cling to community and allow for the supernatural. I hope you can see why I believe that the art of medicine is both extravagant and simple. Each of these aspects are intricately woven into this peculiar field of medicine, and it is my hope to discover more about this dichotomy as I study Paul Farmer’s work and learn from the Honduran people.
Simple Extravagance 