How to apologize genuinely after serious harm

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What if owning your medical mistakes could rebuild trust and prevent future harm?

In this profound episode, Dr. Bradley Block sits down with Dr. Danielle Ofri, to explore the raw realities of errors in medicine. Sharing a vivid story from her residency, Dr. Ofri discusses why mistakes happen, the difference between guilt which drives improvement, and shame which paralyzes, and the power of genuine apologies. Ideal for physicians grappling with perfectionism, this conversation offers strategies for self-compassion, seeking mentors, and creating systems that support clinicians, helping you continue caring without being crushed by uncertainty.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

• Distinguish Guilt from Shame: Guilt focuses on the error and motivates change e.g., "I forgot the long-acting insulin, next time I'll double-check protocols". Shame attacks your identity "I'm a bad doctor". Dr. Ofri advises recognizing this to avoid paralysis; practice by journaling an error's facts versus your emotional narrative, then discuss with a trusted colleague to reframe it productively.
• Bear Witness to Suffering: For patients and peers, simply listening and acknowledging pain builds trust, whether it's a patient's chronic illness story or a colleague's post-error distress. Try this: Next time a teammate struggles, offer a quick check-in like "Need a coffee break?" to foster community and remind them they're valued beyond one mistake.
• Deliver Genuine Apologies: Avoid passive language; own your role actively e.g., "I'm sorry my oversight contributed to this outcome, I've been reflecting deeply and changing my process". Patients value transparency and prevention steps; role-play with a mentor before tough talks to ensure honesty while consulting risk management for legal guidance.

About the Show:

Succeed In Medicine covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!

About the Guest:

Dr. Danielle Ofri is a primary care internist at Bellevue Hospital and clinical professor at NYU. She's a renowned writer on medical emotions for outlets like The New York Times and The New Yorker. Founder of Bellevue Literary Review, she's authored books like "What Doctors Feel" and "When We Do Harm," focusing on errors and humanity in medicine. 

Website: danielleofri.com

About the Host:

Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts Succeed In Medicine podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physicians

Want to be a guest?

Email Brad at brad@physiciansguidetodoctoring.com  or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!

Socials:

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This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!

Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let’s grow! 

Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance.

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