The group discussions were as different as their participants' backgrounds. First and second year students from all walks of life shared their understanding of what their "own countries" are, stories of their first encounters with HIV/AIDS, and their worries about maintaining a work/life balance as medical students and future physicians.
Students wondered how they will personally react, as physicians, to issues burdened with stigma. What issues are they comfortable or uncomfortable confronting? How can the physician-patient interaction affect the patient's quality of life, regardless of whether or not treatment is available?
Some students indicated in a post-discussion feedback survey that they would like to continue the conversation. As such, we will plan on hosting follow up discussions in the coming year, honing in on specific topics of interest. Below is one topic, eloquently expressed by a faculty member, that we would like to further explore, and one which we will leave for your thoughts:
Where do
1. the patient's freedom of choice and individual rights
2. a physician’s obligation to serve man, and
3. the individual physician's beliefs and morals
come together in a collaborative relationship that provides respect for everyone?Thanks to everyone who participated, including Lucie Monroe's coffee shop and Mill Mountain Coffee & Tea for allowing us to use their space!
