Original Research
Individualizing Patient Education for Greater Patient Satisfaction
The benefits of educational intervention on health outcomes has been widely discussed, but the most educational methods have not been addressed....
Studies have shown that job satisfaction is highest among physicians who practice with defined professional and personal boundaries and pursue continued professional development, particularly by attending continuing medical education programs.10 Learning something new can be an antidote for boredom and depression. Being with other dermatologists, a wonderful group of interesting and passionate people, also can provide social support and allows us to express frustration regarding stresses in the workplace. I almost always return from dermatology meetings energized and stimulated.
Another factor related to job satisfaction is a focus on the positive aspects of one’s work. Dermatology is a fascinating study of a group of diseases that we can actually see and touch and biopsy. Some diseases are benign, while others may be fatal. They can occur in patients young and old, sick and healthy. Effective treatments exist that can change the course of these diseases, and new therapies continue to evolve. The art of diagnosis and patient care appeals to me as much as the science. A Canadian study found that appreciating the value of a relationship with the patient correlated with job satisfaction among physicians.11 As dermatologists, we have this opportunity every day with each patient that we see.
Dermatologists indeed are very privileged. Take out another piece of paper and write down 3 aspects of our profession that you are thankful for. You can include things you are grateful for in other parts of your life too because physicians with strong relationships and activities outside of work report fewer episodes of emotional exhaustion.12
Now flip over the paper with the recent changes you do not like. They do not seem so bad anymore, do they?
