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Mixed Feelings About Physician Retirement
They always say you should get attached to the care you receive as a chronically-ill patient, not the physician giving it. However, when you’ve had a really positive experience with a physician, whether that be a general practitioner or a specialist, you have little tolerance for anything less. I feel so grateful for the Pulmonologist who has overseen my care locally over the years, since I was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in 2016. Naturally, I felt gutted when he announced his retirement last week at my appointment.I know he won’t leave without a transition plan for his patients, and I will see him multiple times before he plans to formally retire next spring. I also trust his opinion of who he’ll pass on my care too; there are lots of qualified Pulmonologists in his office. That said, I can’t guarantee they will have the same level of empathy, compassion, active listening skills and humor that my current physician has and I worry about that. What if my relationship with the new Pulmonologist isn’t as trusting as this one?
Because I care deeply for this man as a physician and as a person, I only want what is best for him and am excited for him to start this new chapter in his life. However, I couldn’t help but feel a mixed bag of emotions last week when he told me of his retirement including: anxiousness, nervousness, sadness and fear.
Have you ever experienced the loss (either through retirement or otherwise) of a physician you admired and really trusted with your care?
What was that life for you? Please share with the forums!
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