I prefer a knowledgeable, skilled doctor who can communicate with me.
Over the years, I’ve seen a number of medical specialists. I’ve observed that many of them are brilliant in terms of their knowledge but terrible when it comes to communicating with their patients. They’re scientists. They often appear to lack the ability to work with their patients in a meaningful way. I see one at the moment and I swear he has Aspergers. It doesn’t bother me because I know he’s brilliant within his field and I’m aware enough to recognise what’s going on. I’m also able and confident enough to ask him questions to ensure I understand and get the info I need. However, I’ve read reviews from other patients who find him very hard to deal with.
I have a fabulous GP who happens to be a woman. She listens, she hears, she’s prepared to refer me to specialists if I need them and will admit that what I need is beyond her expertise. She shares the info from tests in a meaningful way and ensures I understand what they mean. That’s what I need from my GP. Someone who’s approachable, who has good all-round knowledge and can direct me to the right medicines or activity, advice or specialist treatment I need.
Which doctor is right for us is going to vary depending on our own needs and personality. My husband doesn’t work well with my GP. He goes to someone else.