The ordinary patient goes to his doctor because he is in…
“The ordinary patient goes to his doctor because he is in pain or some other discomfort and wants to be comfortable again; he is not in pursuit of the ideal of health in any direct sense. The doctor on the other hand wants to discover the pathological condition and control it if he can. The two are thus to some degree at cross purposes from the first, and unless the affair is brought to an early and happy conclusion this diversion of aims is likely to become more and more serious as the case goes on.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Patients seek relief from symptoms, while doctors aim to diagnose and control underlying disease, creating potential misaligned goals.
In simple terms: Patients want comfort; doctors want cure.
Key Takeaway
Align expectations early.
Themes
patient care
medical ethics
communication
Mood
empathetic
professional
Type
advice
clinical.
When to use this quote
- clinical consultations
- health education
- treatment planning
Key Concepts
diagnosis
symptom management
goal alignment
Questions to Reflect On
- How can doctors better explain their diagnostic goals?
- What steps ensure patient comfort while pursuing treatment?
A Different Perspective
Patients may feel unheard if goals aren't clarified.