You may have a complex health problem that doctors have not solved. When you enter a new doctor’s office, a perky young person at the reception area asks who referred you and then requests your insurance cards. Next, you will be given numerous forms to fill out. Then you are seen by an assistant who records your weight, blood pressure, pulse, and even the oxygen saturation from a fingertip. Finally, the physician or his “extender” sees you for 10 – 15 minutes, at least half of which time he is focused on your electronic medical record. After this ceremony, what does the medical professional know about whom you are and … Continue reading →

My Illness Narrative: the Autopathography Project (If you want this in a printable form, please email D.J. Elpern djelpern@gmail.com) You may have a complex health problem that doctors have not solved. When you enter the new doctor’s office, a perky young person asks who referred you and then requests your insurance cards. Next, there are numerous forms to fill out. Then, you are seen by an assistant who records your weight, blood pressure, pulse, and even the oxygen saturation from a fingertip. Finally, the physician or his “extender” sees you for 10 – 15 minutes, at least half of which time he is focused on your electronic medical record. After … Continue reading →