Keep moving forward without stopping communicating with patients

he The Illustrious Official College of Physicians of Valencia (Icomv) Interpolation 125 years The date is December 29th. A wonderful anniversary for a foundation that brings together more than 18,000 Valencian doctors who have dedicated their lives to caring for others. The sacrifice involved Many years of preparationA lifetime of continuous training to be at the forefront of scientific progress.

In recent years we have reached unimaginable milestones MedicineLevels we could not have dreamed of a few decades ago. the technology It is an essential part of our daily lives, not only for research, but for our work in healthcare. Thanks to this and the knowledge we have gained, we can diagnose, treat and treat our patients better. Thanks to all these developments, Average life expectancy In our society it has increased dramatically.

However – and I think this is one of the challenges that health care must face – we cannot forget Continue to reach patients. To hold our patient's hand, listen to him attentively, and look into his eyes. The computer or desk cannot be an insurmountable obstacle that separates us from the reason we exist: patients. Because all the effort we put in, the sacrifice over the years, everything, is for them. “Heal sometimes, soothe often, and comfort always,” he wrote. Claude Bernard. Science and technology are fundamental and necessary to do our work, but these developments must always be accompanied by the human part of medicine. Our wonderful profession is the most scientific of the humanities, the most humanistic of all sciences.

I know that it is difficult to maintain the philosophy of direct and close treatment with the patient when you have to help him over the phone, or when you only have five minutes to diagnose him and prescribe treatment. This is almost impossible to do when a patient is angry because they had to wait a long time and endure long queues to see their doctor.

This tension and discomfort floating in the air translates, in the most serious cases, into insults, threats and attacks. In 2023 we overcome Complaints register Registered with the Legal Services of the College of Physicians. a The situation is unbearable Which should constitute one of the main challenges to health in Valencia.

In the same way, capital should be available to ensure specialization family Medicine, Essential to our health system, they are becoming attractive again among medical students. There cannot be empty places every year, while there are doctors who prefer to repeat MIR instead of choosing that specialty.

We realize that these challenges are not easy to achieve. it is necessary Work and will. Health is the No. 2 concern for Valencians, according to the state's latest barometer. All of us, professionals, politicians and citizens alike, must make an effort to preserve the system that was once a source of pride, and which is now going through delicate moments. It's a challenge, no doubt. nYour life depends on it.