Let's Get Controversial

I don't like the title: Family Doctor.

Orthopods fix your bones.
Dermatologists deal with your skin.
Pediatricians consult on your kid.
Urologists ... you get the picture.

I don't doctor your family.

I treat you.

Sure, I may see your brother and your Mother and your aunt Petunia.
And that's a good thing. It helps me frame things for each of you. And it's fun to get to know you all.

But I don't get you and aunt Petunia together for physicals. or immunizations. or counseling.

So why am I your 'Family Doctor'?

Why not your 'Personal Doctor'? (Who thinks its usually a good idea to share a personal physician with other family members)

"I'm in Personology."
"I just got matched to my top choice in Personal Medicine."
"I've specialized in Personal Medicine."

I could sell that. It means something real. Different, because it suggests a relationship. And it implies wholeness, not just a part of you.

So let's start a movement to dump the term 'Family Medicine'.
And while we're at it, stop 'General medicine' (medicine for generals?).
And forget 'primary care specialist' - too abstract.

From now on, call me your Personal Doctor.

Start Here

I promise to post my thoughts and deeds regularly ... as long as you post your comments too!

I'll confess right up front. This is my attempt to get out of preparing briefs and updates on what is going on in Undergrad Family Medicine at Queen's. "just check out the blog," I'll say, "and you'll not only have my perspective, but others too - why you can even add your own thoughts!"