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Honored Contributor
Posts: 13,776
Registered: ‎07-09-2011

Re: Physician personality or skill

Fortunately for me, I’m in a location, and have the knowledge, and info. to shop for both!

 

I will not willingly put myself in the hands of an arrogant, ego maniac more than once even if s/he give green stamps.

 

Of course sometimes circumstances dictate settling for just the skill to survive.

 

"Animals are not my whole world, but they have made my world whole" ~ Roger Caras
Honored Contributor
Posts: 21,968
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Re: Physician personality or skill

Absolutely skill over personality, however my mom was seeing a Cardiologist recommended by her primary care physician, and she said he made her so uncomfortable, and acted so aloof and almost downright rude, so the 1st time she chalked it up to him being super busy or having a bad day. 

 

The next time she went to see him, he acted the same way like she was bothering him, so we all told her change to someone else. If he is going to give you anxiety over every appointment because of his personality you need to get someone else whom you feel comfortable with. She did and she is much better.

 

She has since talked to several people who have said the same thing about this doctor. 

 

So yes Skill is of the utmost importance, but personality has to figure in my decision somewhat as well to a point. You don't have to be the life of the party, but I need to feel comfortable with you and not feel as if I am a bother either......

Respected Contributor
Posts: 3,062
Registered: ‎07-20-2011

Re: Physician personality or skill

I agree with the fact that personality isn't everything but skill is. It also depends on what type of doctor you are seeing. My husband had colon cancer so we went to one of the top doctors in NYC. He was recommended by 2 other doctors ( that we love ) and have been with for 30 years. This surgeon had a personality of a piece of cardboard. But, he got rave reviews and when cancer is involved, skill counts. After the surgery, he was soo sweet, kind and caring. A completely different person. By the way, he saved my husband from being put on a colostomy bag for the rest of his life, unlike the info that another doctor said would happen. So, the moral of the story is, go with your gut! I had the same experience when I had cancer. The doctor at MSKCC was a cold fish and again, after the surgery, a sweetheart, Surgeons are known to be detached and that is why they are that way. I think sometimes when they get to know you, they warm up to you. At least that has been our experiences.

Happiness is not a destination, it is a way of life.
Honored Contributor
Posts: 21,058
Registered: ‎10-04-2010

Re: Physician personality or skill

Just the facts mam.  I like the straight to and on point info.  Waste no time.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 17,892
Registered: ‎07-03-2013

Re: Physician personality or skill

I like both.  My oncologist has no bedside manner, but had an extensive resume.  He did his job well.  Did we have great conversation during the dark days, no.  Had me second guessing myself, but I knew what I was dealing with when I hired him.