For the most part, we can’t choose our patients and we are obligated to provide the best care to those of all races, sexual orientations, economic class, education level and much more. We have to realize that individuals may have different beliefs or values than ourselves. We must come to terms that we may have stigmas or prejudice of certain populations or individuals and be able to recognize them and put them aside to provide care. Patients may present with depression due to chronic pain and we need to treat the whole person which includes addressing the depression.
Do you have a class that talks about how to handle some of these issues? Do you think this is an important aspect of PT to be discussed and recognized?
I hope we can learn from each other during this chat and push the envelope (respectfully, of course!) a little bit. Talk to you on Wednesday evening at 9pm EST!