What do you feel is the single most important quality a physician should possess?

Question

Rachelle Enns · Accepted Answer

"I believe that the most important quality for a physician to possess is integrity. A physician with integrity will always put their patients first and do what is right for their health and safety in any situation. They will treat all attending staff respectfully and dedicate themselves to improving their craft. Integrity is essential, and I strive to reflect that in everything I do."

Rachelle Enns · Answer

Success as a physician in practice can stem from many different and unique qualities. In posing this question during your medical school interview, your interviewers want to hear that you've put some thought into what you believe is the top quality a great physician should have. They'll also be looking for you to show confidence in the qualities that will help you become a great physician.

Ryan Brunner · Answer

This question is an opportunity to give a unique answer, so try to dig deeper than 'good bedside manner' or 'strong attention to detail. There is also no correct answer for this question, so you can consider any hard or soft skills and debate why you feel that skill is the single most important quality or skill that a physician can possess.

Dr. Rodman · Answer

"The most important quality is selflessness. Physicians must always put their patients before themselves. Maintaining a selfless attitude in a busy clinical setting or with challenging patients is a difficult task, but something I believe distinguishes the best physicians."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I think a physician should possess empathy. You can be the smartest physician in your practice, but if you are cold-hearted or disconnected from your patients, it will be difficult to help them. I learned that patients express a sense of vulnerability when they seek treatment and care from a physician. Thus, empathy provides support and helps to establish trust between the patient and physician. If patients feel that support, then they are more inclined to accept and receive care."

Anonymous User · Answer

"Dedication. Physicians must be dedicated to their patients, to life long learning, and to themselves to perform at high levels. A competent physician is dedicated not to the diseases that he or she treats but to the patient to address their mental, emotional, and physical needs. Dedication to life long learning is essential to stay up to date on best practices and current research to provide the best care to patients. Lastly, a physician must be dedicated to him or herself to prevent burn out. Making time for exercise, relaxation, and socialization helps to maintain a well-balanced life and keep the physician happy."

Anonymous User · Answer

"I feel that the single most important quality physician should possess is integrity. I believe that honesty and having strong moral and ethical principles and values is a necessity to be in a profession that deals with people's lives that could result in death. I believe a physician should have unwavering morals and ethicals that will guide them in decisions towards patients' treatment, healthcare, and lives."

Anonymous User · Answer

"To me, compassion is so important for physicians to possess. Patients visit physicians at such a vulnerable time in their life, and it is important to understand what they are going through and be able to comfort them while also telling them risks that come with their situation as well. Patients want someone who cares about their health and is willing to help."

What do you feel is the single most important quality a physician should possess?

How to Answer: What do you feel is the single most important quality a physician should possess?

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19. What do you feel is the single most important quality a physician should possess?

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