Patients are accustomed to thanking those who take care of them. But at the same time, most clinicians are deeply appreciative of their patients. Day in and day out, doctors, nurses, and advanced practice providers at Mayfield Brain & Spine are inspired, humbled, and deeply moved by the patients they treat. As Mayfield joins hospitals and medical practices in celebrating National Patient Recognition Week, our clinicians paused a moment to put their feelings about their patients into words.
“The greatest insight I have gained from my patients is the strength and resilience of the human spirit. Time and time again, I see patients faced with what seem to be insurmountable challenges. Whether the diagnosis is a brain tumor or a severely degenerated spine, I see people facing that challenge and overcoming that challenge to live a healthy, happy, active life again. Nothing gives me greater joy than to see that victory!”
Christopher McPherson, MD, Neurosurgeon / Director of Neurosurgery, Good Samaritan Hospital
“Patients have taught me that it is important to listen to what they have to say. More often than not, the greatest insight that can be gained about how to help a patient comes directly from the patient’s description of the symptoms they are experiencing.”
Robert Bohinski, MD, PhD, Neurosurgeon
“I think that, despite the many different, often serious issues I’ve had to address with my patients, the most consistent is fear. Fear of the unknown. Fear of the outcome. Fear borne of misinformation … or quite accurate information. Mostly, this fear comes from a lack of detailed understanding of the medical problem they or their loved ones face. And the greatest, most heartfelt thanks that I’ve received have come after I’ve simply taken the time to make sure they understand. A handful of extra minutes in the office, at the bedside, or on the phone, and I can detect the relief that they feel almost immediately. They appreciate the understanding, feel more comfortable about their decisions and their options and are often more compliant with treatment and recovery. My informed patients are my best patients. And the most grateful.”
Andrew Ringer, MD, Neurosurgeon / Chairman, Mayfield Brain & Spine
“When asking a patient how she had dealt so well with her diagnosis and always maintained a positive attitude, she told me this: ‘Keep your faith. And be able to say you’re welcome more than you say thank you. But don’t forget to always say thank you.’”
Katherine Walters, PA-C, Physician Assistant