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| [The assumption of Mary via wikimedia] |
"Empathy is the highest form of respect."
Lisa B. Marshall
"Respect indicates an awareness of the patient as an individual worthy of consideration and dignity. For instance, respect includes things like validation, normalization, accommodation, reflective language and transparency. Respectful student doctors are non-judgmental, honest, don't interrupt, admit uncertainty, apologize when necessary, take responsibility, keep commitments, and don't make assumptions based on class, gender, sexuality or race."
But since empathy is one of my core values, I find Lisa B. Marshall's quote fascinating. What do you think?
A friend wrote to remind me that respect goes beyond empathy: "Respect also means acknowledging the validity and importance of experiences I myself can never enter, even with empathy." I think is such an important point, one that frequently affects how doctors interact with patients especially in regards to autonomy. Empathy is a core value, but it is hollow without respect.
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