How would you describe your bedside manner with patients?
In your training as a medical genetics resident, you will still be working closely with patients. This is important to understand because it is sometimes believed that a great bedside manner isn't necessary for this field. Because of this, a positive bedside manner is essential in medical genetics. Your interviewers want to hear that you have a calming and empathetic bedside manner with patients, regardless of the training path you took to this point.
"I would describe my bedside manner as nurturing, comforting, patient, and caring. I appreciate that my radiology residency training emphasized direct patient care skills because they are important when interacting directly with patients to discuss procedures and results. I approach all patients the same. I introduce myself, ask their name, and explain what I'm going to discuss with them. I take the time to actively listen to their concerns, showing them I care about them and want to help them."
As a medical genetics resident, a kind, patient, friendly, compassionate, and caring approach with any patient you work with will be vital. As you answer, be sure to emphasize these qualities within yourself. Now is the time to describe how you treat all patients with respect, empathy, kindness, and compassion. If you have some examples of your bedside manner being beneficial during your training to this point, now is a great time to discuss those.
