Summary
Dr. Stephen J. Forman, an expert in leukemia and lymphoma, explains why he no longer wears a white coat in his medical practice. He believes the white coat creates a barrier between doctors and patients, rather than helping build a strong doctor-patient relationship. Dr. Forman emphasizes the importance of connecting with patients on a human level, especially those dealing with serious illnesses like cancer.
Key Facts
- Dr. Stephen J. Forman is a cancer specialist at City of Hope, a major cancer center.
- He stopped wearing a white coat 25 years ago because he feels it creates a barrier.
- The white coat tradition began in medical schools to symbolize entry into the profession.
- Originally, doctors wore white coats to show their scientific approach to medicine.
- Dr. Forman argues that the white coat does not aid in creating a personal connection with patients.
- "White coat syndrome" refers to patient anxiety caused by the presence of doctors in white coats.
- Dr. Forman believes seeing patients as people, not just their diagnoses, is crucial for their care.
