In spain, over 8,000 internists play a crucial role in hospitals, yet their contributions often go unnoticed. Dr. Víctor García Bustos from the Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe in Valencia sheds light on the vital work of internists, who serve as the backbone of patient care. Their approach begins with a thorough conversation with patients to accurately diagnose their conditions before any tests are conducted. This method emphasizes a holistic view of health, integrating multiple medical specialties to address the complexities of patients, especially in an aging society where multiple health issues are common. By fostering collaboration among various specialists, internists enhance the quality of care and reduce the risk of adverse reactions to treatments, ensuring patients receive thorough and coordinated medical attention.During the COVID-19 pandemic, internists played a crucial role in managing patient care, particularly in hospitals where they were at the forefront of treating severe cases. Their expertise was vital not onyl in emergency care but also in home hospitalization, ensuring that patients received comprehensive support throughout their illness. Internists often collaborate with primary care teams and other healthcare professionals, enhancing the quality of care by addressing comorbidities and improving patient outcomes before and after surgical procedures. This holistic approach underscores the importance of a strong internal medicine service in hospitals,as it facilitates better communication and coordination,ultimately leading to fewer complications and a smoother recovery process for patients. As the healthcare landscape evolves, the need for a humanistic approach in medicine remains paramount, emphasizing the importance of listening to patients and understanding their unique experiences.In a recent interview, a passionate internist shared insights into the complexities and rewards of their specialty, emphasizing the importance of a thorough medical history in diagnosing challenging cases. While many medical students consider more lucrative fields like dermatology, this internist chose internal medicine for its intellectual stimulation and the art of diagnosis. they expressed that the thrill of solving intricate medical puzzles, akin to the challenges faced by the fictional Dr. House, is what truly drives their vocation. The internist highlighted that real-life cases can be just as complex as those depicted in medical dramas,with patients presenting mysterious symptoms that require extensive inquiry and tailored treatment plans. This dedication to patient care and the pursuit of knowledge underscores the vital role of internists in the healthcare system.
Q&A with Dr. Víctor García Bustos: understanding the Vital Role of Internists in Spain’s Healthcare System
Editor: Dr. García Bustos, thank you for joining us today. Many people may not realize that over 8,000 internists play a crucial role in Spain’s hospitals. Can you explain what an internist dose and why their work is vital to patient care?
Dr.García Bustos: Thank you for having me. Internists are specialists in internal medicine who focus on thorough and holistic patient care. we start with a detailed conversation with our patients to accurately diagnose their conditions. This approach allows us to see beyond just the symptoms and understand the full patient history, which is essential, especially in an aging society where patients frequently enough present with multiple health issues.
Editor: That sounds incredibly vital. Could you elaborate on how internists collaborate with other medical specialties to enhance patient care?
Dr. García Bustos: Definitely. One of our key roles as internists is to act as coordinators among various specialties. We integrate insights from different medical fields to create a comprehensive care plan that addresses all aspects of a patient’s health. This collaboration minimizes the risk of adverse treatment reactions and improves the overall quality of care. We ensure that all specialists are on the same page, ultimately leading to better outcomes for our patients.
Editor: The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the healthcare landscape considerably. How did internists respond to the challenges posed during this time?
Dr. García Bustos: Internists were at the forefront of managing patient care during the pandemic, especially for severe cases in hospitals. Our expertise wasn’t limited to emergency settings; we also provided vital support through home hospitalization, ensuring constant care and monitoring of patients. The pandemic highlighted the importance of our role in bridging care,particularly for those with comorbidities which require careful management.
Editor: You’ve mentioned the importance of listening to patients.How does a humanistic approach in medicine influence your practice?
Dr. García Bustos: A humanistic approach is basic in internal medicine. We prioritize understanding our patients’ unique experiences and perspectives. Listening is crucial in identifying underlying issues.this personalized care not only improves patient satisfaction but also fosters trust,which can lead to more accurate diagnoses and successful treatment plans.
Editor: What motivates you and others to choose a career in internal medicine,even when more lucrative fields exist?
Dr. García Bustos: For many of us, it’s the intellectual challenge and the art of diagnosis that draw us to this specialty. Like the character Dr.House, we love solving complex medical puzzles. Real-life cases can be incredibly intricate, requiring deep inquiry and tailored approaches. The pursuit of knowledge and the ability to make a meaningful impact in our patients’ lives outweigh the financial incentives.
Editor: Lastly, what advice would you give medical students considering a career in internal medicine?
Dr. García Bustos: I would encourage them to think critically about what they enjoy and value in medicine. If they are drawn to complexity, problem-solving, and building long-term relationships with patients, internal medicine can be incredibly rewarding. Emphasizing the importance of thorough medical histories and strong interaction skills will serve them well in their careers.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. García Bustos, for sharing your insights. It’s clear that internists are essential in providing coordinated, empathetic, and comprehensive care.Your dedication to this field is inspiring.
Dr. García Bustos: Thank you! It’s a pleasure to share the importance of our work and hope to inspire future generations of internists.