TY - CHAP M1 - Book, Section TI - Only 4 of 6 Cycles A1 - Oke, Oluchi C. A1 - Epner, Daniel E. A2 - Epner, Daniel E. Y1 - 2022 N1 - T2 - Empathy: Real Stories to Inspire and Enlighten Busy Clinicians AB - HER WORDS LANDED like a hard slap across my face, but her tone was more resignation than anger: “I don't trust you.” Queasiness welled up in my stomach. How can anyone not trust me? I am the consummate professional, attired in fashionable but not flashy clothing, understated jewelry and a starched white coat. My hair is always perfect. I sit at eye level, listen generously, and address my patients with respect and authenticity. I show up for work early and stay late, because my parents always said, “If you show up on time, you are late.” I keep up with all the latest medical advances and treat all my patients with the utmost respect and compassion, whether rich or poor, Black or White. Perhaps most importantly, I am honest. I tell patients with stage IV cancer, “I am afraid your cancer is not curable”, but then I quickly add, “But it is treatable.” I epitomize trust, so I must have misheard my patient. I asked, “You don't trust me?” “That's right; I don't trust you or any of your people.” I can understand why a few of my patients may wonder, “Does this young doctor have enough experience to take good care of me? Her name looks African. Did she train in America or in some foreigncountry?” However, their skepticism quickly melts away after they get to know me and find out that I trained at prestigious U.S. institutions. I take great pride in connecting with my patients, but I had obviously failed miserably with this woman. I needed to figure out a way to regain her trust. SN - PB - McGraw Hill LLC CY - New York, NY Y2 - 2024/11/06 UR - accessmedicine.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=1190085925 ER -