Re: Rejuvenated image

Issue: BCMJ, vol. 43, No. 10, December 2001, Page 550 Letters
By: A. Krisman, MD

I enjoyed JAW’s editorial (“Rejuvenated image,” BCMJ 43(7):378) which suggests that if nurses resumed the wearing of traditional uniforms they would inspire greater confidence, appreciation, and respect from patients, co-workers, administrators, and government.

Doctors might benefit similarly if they returned to more dignified attire. Surely a physician can be a “friend” without showing up in shorts and sandals at the hospital, or a T-shirt and jeans in the office. Also rapport is quite possible without encouraging patients to address you by your first name.

Even in today’s pseudo-egalitarian world most people go to the doctor’s office looking for someone special. “Buddies” are available in any pub.

The dinosaur has spoken.

—Ashley Krisman, MD 
Vancouver

A. Krisman, MD. Re: Rejuvenated image. BCMJ, Vol. 43, No. 10, December, 2001, Page(s) 550 - Letters.


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Halpern SD, Ubel PA, Caplan AL, Marion DW, Palmer AM, Schiding JK, et al. Solid-organ transplantation in HIV-infected patients. N Engl J Med. 2002;347:284-7.

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