|
Stepping into Dover back in 1986, I embraced the role of the community’s first neurologist. During that era, it was customary for physicians to integrate into the Medical Society of Delaware (MSD), establish their practices, and commit their careers to the community. MSD’s Kent County Medical Society chapter was the heartbeat of our professional circle in this area, a place where we, along with our families, forged lasting bonds.
Fast forward to 2023, the landscape of health care in Kent County, and indeed across the nation, has shifted dramatically. Today’s physicians, primarily hospital-employed, often stay but a few years, their paths transient as they’re reassigned among various locations.
We’ve transitioned from being autonomous practitioners to becoming akin to chess pieces within the complex board game of the American health care system — our moves dictated not by us, but by vast, impersonal entities whose priorities often diverge from the very essence of patient care.
Gone are the days when I knew each Kent County physician by name. This loss of personal connection has been deepened by the dissolution of county medical societies and further complicated by the rise of hospitalists, employed physicians, and the integration of nurse practitioners and PAs (physician assistants).
Reflecting on the "old days," patients had a unique relationship with their doctors, who were able to address most health concerns comprehensively. I recall a childhood incident where, after a day of fishing ended with a hook lodged in my head, it was our trusted family doctor who skillfully handled the minor emergency. Contrast that with today, and the scenario would undoubtedly involve an impersonal ER visit, a likely CT scan, and a hefty bill.
While I could linger in nostalgia, reality beckons us to acknowledge change as the only constant. The small town pharmacies and local hardware stores of yesteryears are now memories, replaced by giants like CVS, Rite Aid, Lowes, and Home Depot — though, notably, even these behemoths face their challenges.
As we navigate this evolving landscape, let us reaffirm our commitment to what brought us to this noble profession: providing unparalleled care for our patients. I urge you to remain engaged and proactive within groups like MSD.
My tenure as MSD President has been revelatory, to say the least. I invite you to join us at our Annual Meeting on November 18th to gain insights into our initiatives. Your presence will not only surprise you but also invigorate our collective efforts. We’re here for you, but your support is vital to fortifying this symbiotic relationship. Together, we can continue to make a difference. Learn more about the MSD Annual Meeting and register.
| 
