Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Inspirational Medicine

Good mentors make the difference in all fields of education. Inspirational mentors can liberate the greatness in us, while leading to a standout vocational experience. I've been extremely fortunate in my life to have worked closely with some amazing professionals who would instruct me in learning a skill set and add the spark of imagination that made the vocation truely satisfying. I always strive to bring this level of excitment and enthusiasm to teaching, whether it's someone who is assisting in the clinic or a class room atmosphere. Most of the classes I've taught at NESA have been around communication and business development. I began, like many other practitioners who teach, discussing how to create better patient outcomes. This is exactly what students are in school to learn. However; I found that communication is essential to success. Being able to clearly explain your methods of care, lay out a well understood treatment plan with agreed upon metrics of improvement are also key elements to a successful patient outcome. Also, most patients will leave and their family and friends are curious about acupuncture or herbs. As practitioners, we need to help our patients to understand our medicine and give them resources to help others know about how we can help their bodies heal. Understanding drives a practice as well as patient outcomes. Patients then know their own part in the process and are able to reach out for better tools so that you assist them and empower them towards long lasting health habits. That's practicing inspirational medicine.

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