I will keep my reflections on today’s content short and sweet, as I had a profound realization today.  The last two days, as I have previously mentioned, have been extremely draining emotionally.  I think this is both in part because of the incredible sadness I fell in regards to the many, tragic stories I have been told, but also in regards to helplessness I have felt in how to change the medical system.  I have seen many of the behaviors we have been discussing,  which have undoubtedly led to poor outcomes.  Although I have on occasion reported these individuals for their indiscretions, I realized today this was not good enough.

Today, Dr. Galbraith posed the question, “Why do our patients trust us?”  My immediate response was because we have taken an oath to do no harm and because we care enough to attempt to… Continue reading →

What a great but emotionally challenging day!  Despite having a strong interest in QI and patient safety, it’s never easy to be reminded of the incredible damage we can cause with medical errors (in terms of the patients, their families, and the caregivers themselves).    I have to admit I cried several times today during the morning’s presentations.  On the bright side, I am surrounded by incredible faculty and young medical professionals who are so inspiring.  I left today truly believing I can be an active part of making the ideals of Marseille a reality through cultural change, leading by example, and constant efforts to improve quality and patient safety.  What an honor to sit in a room with a new generation of doctors and nurses determined to make the system better and eliminate the astronomical (and frankly inexcusable) number of… Continue reading →