The Allergist Episode 19 – Balancing Chronic Care and Self-Care for the Patient and Physician

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“When you fly, the flight attendant is always telling you, put on your oxygen mask first before you help somebody else. And it’s so true. We’re way more efficient in a clinic setting when we have taken care of ourselves.”​

– Dr. Maureen Petersen

Join Dr. Mariam Hanna as she sits down with Dr. Maureen Petersen, a pediatric allergist and immunologist from North Carolina Chapel Hill, to explore the challenges of managing chronic illness from the perspective of both the physician and the parent. Dr. Petersen brings a unique personal connection to this topic, having navigated her daughter’s chronic illnesses while pursuing a medical career.

On this episode:

Navigating Chronic Illness: Dr. Petersen shares her experiences with treating chronically ill children, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in patient-caregiver relationships. She illustrates the unique challenges faced by families and offers strategies to improve communication and support.

Physician’s Perspective: Dr. Petersen discusses the impact of chronic illness on physicians, highlighting techniques for maintaining compassion and methods to avoid burnout while delivering high-quality care.

Self-Care for Physicians: Practical advice on how physicians can manage their well-being amidst demanding careers. Dr. Petersen emphasizes the importance of finding joy, setting personal goals, and prioritizing self-care to maintain a balanced and fulfilling medical career.

Empowering Families: Learn how to support families dealing with chronic illness. Dr. Petersen provides valuable tips on encouraging open communication, validating parent’s experiences, and offering necessary resources without overwhelming them, ensuring they feel seen and heard.

Tune in to this episode for an insightful discussion on the intricacies of chronic illness care and the vital role of self-care for physicians, offering practical advice and expert perspectives for healthcare providers and caregivers alike.

Posted on June 11, 2024.