Book Review: How Doctors Think by J Groopman

Every healthcare provider, whether they work in a hospital or community setting, has to think about how to best assist people heal themselves. These decisions can have a small or large impact: from saving someone’s life to making someone’s day easier or safer.

This book questions how those decisions are made; and how medical technology, legislation and education can hinder or help. It is also, in a sense, a self-help book – with ideas on how every person who seeks medical care can help their doctors (and other healthcare professionals) make better judgements together.

I couldn’t help but be sucked in by the stories presented, and I loved the optimistic tone in the background. Even though there was critique of the education and healthcare systems, there was no judgemental, negative finger-pointing going on. Just stories, or parables (if you like), with a message to challenge the way you see things, open your mind and listen: really listen to what people are trying to tell you.

I am only halfway through, but am loving this book, and how it has made me rethink the way I approach the people/clients/patients I deal with everyday. It’s a welcome distraction from thinking day and night about pregnancy/ baby stuff, and makes me proud to do the work I do.