Lessons from Master Clinicians: An Interview with Dr. Alan Baer

Every patient has a unique life story, & it’s always a privilege to hear it firsthand. —Dr. Baer

TR: What habits can a fellow in training or junior rheumatologist incorporate into daily practice that will build their skills as a clinician?

Dr. Baer: I continually strive to perfect my physical exam skills, including skin examination, ophthalmoscopy, the evaluation of the oral cavity, cardiac percussion and auscultation, and others. I use the steps of the physical exam to complete a review of systems, asking about organ or regional symptoms as I progress through the exam.

I strive to review abnormal diagnostic imaging and pathology with radiologists and pathologists, so that I can appreciate the findings for myself and get guidance as to their significance. I strive to complete an appropriate evaluation for symptoms or abnormal findings that remain in the rubric of internal medicine, such as thyroid nodules, carotid bruits, enlarged lymph nodes, etc.

Finally, I continue to summarize my clinical experiences in case reports and series to ensure others can gain from it, as well.

TR: What lessons have you learned from patients that have contributed to your growth as a clinician?

Dr. Baer: I have learned to admire each patient’s accomplishments, path in life and struggles. Every patient has a unique life story, and it’s always a privilege to hear it firsthand. This makes the daily practice of medicine richly rewarding. I have also come to recognize that you cannot solve each patient’s problems, but I always listen, empathize and seek to identify issues that can be solved.

Jason Liebowitz, MD, completed his fellowship in rheumatology at Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, where he also earned his medical degree. He is currently in practice with Skylands Medical Group, N.J.

Reference

1. Tumulty PA. The Effective Clinician: His Methods and Approach to Diagnosis and Care. Philadelphia: Saunders, 1973.