His Name was Bill
Today I had the humbling opportunity to hear stories from individuals whose lives were turned upside down as a result of medical error. They spoke with grace, conviction, and courage. They also spoke with frustration and sadness. Their stories are important and what they shared today is heart-breaking. Their stories need to be heard, not only in the medical community but also throughout the general public.
As I reflect on the many stories I have read and heard surrounding medical error and the horrifying impact these errors have had on patients and their families, I am ashamed and heart broken. We, physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurses, assistants, enter the health care field to heal, to bring hope, and to be there to provide comfort and expertise in, perhaps, one of the darkest hours of an individual’s life. However, as medical error seeps into our interactions and creates a culture… Continue reading
The Marseille Opportunity
Patient safety, quality of care, and advocacy for better health outcomes have been the cornerstone in my preparation for my future as an osteopathic physician. As I reflect on my experiences, I analyze the various ways that I have positively impacted patient care regarding safety, quality, and advocacy, as well as cogitate on efforts that could have been improved. I have had the opportunity to work as a certified nursing assistant (CNA), medical scribe, and medical assistant in a multitude of capacities, all of which enabled me to have an impact on patient care.
During my time as a medical assistant at an ear, nose, throat, and allergy clinic, I served as an allergy technician and medical assistant staff trainer. It was substantially important that staff who administered immunotherapy injections give the right dosage due to chance for anaphylaxis or subtherapeutic treatment if incorrect. However, I noticed errors in patient… Continue reading