From Doctor to Healer: The Transformative Journey

Rating:
Summary: This book should be required reading for all physicians.
Review: "From Doctor to Healer" should be required reading for every medical student and physician. It is a classic text that clearly and concisely defines the paradigm shift that is occurring in medicine. The authors describe the characteristics of the old paradigm - "technomedicine" - and those who practice it; the bridging "humanistic" medicine with its distinguishing features; and the new paradigm of "holistic" medicine with its defining attributes. In the process of their superb illumination of the ways in which these types of medical practice differ, the authors use heart-rending and evocative interviews and comments from physicians who are stuck within the old paradigm, those who are making the shift, and those who have been through the transformation and have survived in their profession. The book is invaluable for physicians who are feeling isolated and confused about the imbalances they feel in their professional lives. The stories of other physicians who have had the same feelings and experiences, suffered the same wounds, felt completely alone in their anguish and longing for a different way to practice, will comfort and encourage readers to continue on their own paths to transformation within their profession. Patients who are seeking to understand their physicians, or looking to find a physician who is ready to be a partner in their healing process will be greatly assisted in their search by the information and insights in this book. I highly recommend it to anyone who has any contact with the medical profession.