 |
In the mind of the MD
Ever wonder why your doc asks certain questions or runs certain tests? We posed a quick Q & A to family physician Dr. Ryan Dick of the HealthEast Vadnais Heights Clinic.
What can people tell you — or ask — that helps you provide the best care?
Sometimes it’s very helpful for patients to be very specific with their medical concerns. For instance, someone might have come in because they are worried they need antibiotics — but when we talk and figure out that their illness might be the result of a different cause, such as smoking, then I can provide information on quitting as well as offering the best treatment for their symptoms. The smartest questions come when a patient listens to my initial diagnosis and treatment options, and then says, "Ok, but if this symptom doesn’t go away, what then? What else could it be, and what’s the future game plan?" As a doctor, I’m already thinking this way, but this puts knowledge in your hands as well.
Why do you ask about recent illnesses or surgery?
Even if you come in healthy for a regular checkup, it’s really helpful to know where you’re at in your medical care — and that’s not always apparent in your chart. Sometimes this knowledge gives me a different sense of who you are and what I should be looking for. I would look for different things in a young person who’s had a history of illness compared to an older person who hasn’t.
What is the most important medical test you administer?
There are such a large variety of tests available to physicians today, but nothing is more important than a patient history and a physical exam. Whenever I’m puzzled or there are more questions than answers, I go back and review what I’ve discussed with a patient. Often, when I ask the same questions in a different way, I can almost always find clues that solve what’s going on.
What’s the biggest struggle as a family doctor?
As physicians, we always want our patients to feel that we are concerned about their symptoms and illness. Sometimes, the hardest thing for a doctor to say is the word "No." We want our patients to know they’re getting good care, but sometimes the cons outweigh the pros in doing some tests or prescribing some medications. If someone thinks they need antibiotics, and I know the antibiotics won’t help, I’ll focus on medications that will improve their symptoms along with a plan for follow-up. That way, I can avoid unnecessary medication but still provide the best care for my patients.
Learn more about Dr. Ryan Dick.
|
|
