Attending

*Attending: Medicine, Mindfulness, and Humanity* explores the intersection of mindful awareness and medical practice. Dr. Ronald Epstein draws from his decades of experience as a physician and educator to examine how doctors can provide better care through presence and attention. The book presents research, case studies and personal reflections on what it means to be fully present in healthcare settings. Epstein outlines specific techniques and approaches that medical professionals can use to cultivate mindfulness in their daily practice. Through discussions of doctor-patient relationships, medical errors, and healthcare system challenges, the book demonstrates how mindfulness impacts medical outcomes. Key concepts include managing uncertainty, recognizing bias, and maintaining compassion under pressure. This work makes a broader argument about the role of human connection and awareness in modern medicine. The book suggests that technical expertise alone is insufficient - true healing requires doctors to develop their capacity for presence, wisdom and self-knowledge.

Readers value the book's practical techniques for improving mindfulness and presence in medical practice. Many found the real-world examples from Dr. Epstein's experience helpful in demonstrating how attention and mindfulness impact patient care. Liked: - Clear writing style and actionable steps - Balance of scientific research and personal anecdotes - Relevant for both medical professionals and general readers - Techniques for managing stress and burnout Disliked: - Some sections feel repetitive - A few readers wanted more concrete exercises - Medical terminology can be dense for non-healthcare readers Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (500+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (200+ ratings) Notable reader comment: "Provides specific tools for staying present with patients rather than just theoretical concepts about mindfulness." - Goodreads reviewer Multiple readers noted the book helped them reconnect with their original motivation for entering healthcare and improved their daily interactions with patients.

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🔹 Ronald Epstein developed his insights on mindful practice while working as both a family physician and a palliative care physician, bringing a unique dual perspective to patient care. 🔹 The term "attending" has a double meaning in medicine - referring both to a supervising physician and to the act of being present and mindful with patients. 🔹 The book draws from Buddhist meditation practices and adapts them specifically for medical practitioners to help prevent burnout and improve patient care. 🔹 Studies cited in the book show that doctors interrupt patients on average within 18 seconds of them beginning to speak about their symptoms. 🔹 The mindfulness techniques described in "Attending" have been incorporated into the curriculum at multiple medical schools, including the University of Rochester School of Medicine, where Epstein teaches.