As a family medicine physician, I’ve seen firsthand how recent events have created new challenges for both healthcare providers and patients. With changes to key health agencies and growing mistrust in medical information, it’s more important than ever that we work together to ensure access to accurate health resources and compassionate care. Here’s my advice for how we can navigate these uncertain times:
For Healthcare Providers
- Be a trusted source of information. With the limiting of communication from agencies like the CDC, we must rely even more on credible online resources. I recommend pointing patients to trusted sites like Planned Parenthood, Take Back Trust, and reproductiverights.gov. The World Health Organization, while no longer affiliated with the US, can still provide valuable global health insights.
- Address patient concerns head-on. Many patients are understandably wary right now about the accuracy of diagnoses, tests, and treatments. Take time to walk them through your clinical reasoning and invite them to be part of the diagnostic journey. Transparency builds trust.
Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell - Advocate for diversity in medical research. The attack on diversity initiatives threatens to undo critical progress in studying how medications and treatments affect different populations. Remind patients and colleagues that diversity in clinical trials is essential for developing safe, effective treatments for all.
- Amplify diverse voices. Share and uplift the work of clinicians from different backgrounds. When we boost each other’s voices, we expand our reach and increase credibility across communities.
- Practice self-care. To care for others, we must care for ourselves. Reflect on what brings you joy and make time for it, even if just for a few minutes each day. For me, that means dancing or listening to music. Find what works for you.
- Collaborate with colleagues. Join forces with other providers to share accurate information, whether through social media, op-eds, or community outreach. We are stronger together.
- Stay true to your mission. Remember why you entered healthcare—to help people. Let that drive you to continue advocating for your patients and standing up for evidence-based care.
For Advising Patients
- Acknowledge their concerns. Many patients are fearful about receiving bad news or unsure if they can trust medical information. Validate these feelings while providing reassurance.
- Explain your reasoning. Walk patients through how you arrived at a diagnosis or treatment plan. Invite them to ask questions and be part of the process.
- Provide credible resources. Direct patients to trustworthy sites for further information on their health concerns. Encourage them to come to you with questions about anything they find online.
- Discuss the importance of diverse research. Help patients understand why studying health outcomes across different populations leads to better care for everyone.
- Encourage health literacy. Empower patients to take an active role in their healthcare by improving their understanding of medical concepts and how to evaluate health information.
- Address specific community concerns. Be aware of how current events may be impacting different patient populations. For example, discuss how attacks on diversity could affect research and care for women or minority groups.
- Seek joy together. Remind patients of the importance of self-care and finding moments of happiness, even in challenging times.
As healthcare providers, we are facing a divided and volatile landscape. But by standing firm in our commitment to evidence-based care, amplifying diverse voices, and fostering trust with our patients, we can continue to make a positive impact.
Remember, we are all a blend of many diversities. Our strength lies in embracing this diversity – in our patients, our colleagues, and our research. By working together and uplifting each other, we can navigate these uncertain times and continue providing the compassionate, informed care our patients deserve.
Let’s keep raising our voices, sharing credible information, and reminding ourselves and our patients to seek joy wherever we can find it. The future of healthcare may be uncertain, but our dedication to helping others remains unwavering.
Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell is the Medical Director for Saint Mary’s Urgent Care Group in Reno, NV. She also serves vulnerable populations through the Washoe County Sexual Assault Response Team and Child Protective Services. Internationally recognized for her advocacy, Dr. Bayo’s work pushes the boundaries of traditional healthcare, fostering comprehensive well-being and making a meaningful impact across diverse communities.