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Health Quote by Norman Cousins

“Time is the one thing that patients need most from their doctors--time to be heard, time to have things explained, time to reassured, time to be introduced by the doctor personally to specialists or other attendants whose very existence seems to reflect something new and threatening. yet the one…” quote by Norman Cousins
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““Time is the one thing that patients need most from their doctors--time to be heard, time to have things explained, time to reassured, time to be introduced by the doctor personally to specialists or other attendants whose very existence seems to reflect something new and threatening. yet the one thing that too many doctors find most difficult to command or manage is time.””

Norman Cousins

About This Quote

Source Book: The Healing Power of Time, 1975

Patients need ample time from doctors for listening, explanation, reassurance, and personal connection.

In simple terms: Doctors must give patients more time.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize patient‑doctor time.

Themes

healthcare communication empathy

Mood

empathetic urgent

Type

practical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • clinical appointments
  • telemedicine
  • hospital rounds

Key Concepts

medical ethics patient-centered care

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can healthcare systems allocate more time?
  • What practices improve patient listening?
A Different Perspective

Time constraints limit thorough care.

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