This afternoon I met with my cardiologist for my semi-annual checkup. I've really enjoyed working with him. He is an excellent doctor. By "excellent" I mean someone who doesn't try and see his patients as fast as possible, but someone who tries to treat his patients as unique individuals. An excellent cardiologist explains things in layman's terms and takes the time to try and educate his patients. Every patient is different. Some patients have significant medical problems. In such cases, a good cardiologist will provide more than medical care. He or she will provide encouragement and (in some cases) even spiritual care. With every patient interaction they have an opportunity to be compassionate, relieve anxiety, remove burdens, or simply let their patients know you hear them and they are not alone.
Today I also said goodbye to my cardiologist. He's retiring after 35 years serving our community so well and so caringly. I congratulated him and thanked him for the positive role model he's been for the younger physicians who are coming after him. He made every one of his patients feel like a VIP. By the way, he was very happy with my fitness journey, my blood pressure, my diet, and my cholesterol levels. He gave me the green light to surf and climb this summer as long as I am careful to stay hydrated and avoid heat stroke.
As a teacher, I am glad I knew him. What makes an excellent cardiologist also makes an excellent educator. Knowing your stuff and actually caring puts you pretty high up in my estimation.