Thoughts during uncertain times

We have moved into the season of expanding light. Relief always washes over me when we turn the corner at Winter solstice. There are many reasons to search for the light in the coming year. My family medicine colleague from Kansas does I nice job of describing the dark times ahead for public health.

He also framed the background to the justified anger about for-profit health care raised in the media and public discussions after the recent murder of the United Health Care CEO. We live in difficult times, especially related to quality and access to basic health care for all. Obamacare was a step in the right direction but failed to address the monopoly on high profits enjoyed by pharmaceutical and insurance companies. The incoming administration does not have a vision to improve health care access, but we can only hope that disruptive change presents opportunities.

After the November election, I asked the group of 2nd year medical students in my Doctoring group if they wanted to share their thoughts about the election outcome. I facilitate the group of eight with a licensed social worker. We meet weekly for a half day to learn and practice physical exam and interviewing skills. Several talked about the uncertainty and worried about what it might mean for where and how they can train and practice medicine. They have good reason to be concerned.

One of the students offered the advice of her community primary care preceptor who had also discussed the outcome with her. She heard the clear-headed advice. “As a physician I will continue to see one patient at a time and do my best for them. That is the most important thing I can do.”

Perhaps that is the best we can all do, to greet each moment with all we have, and to look for opportunities to speak out about justice and fairness for every human being.

Peace to each of us in 2025.