

Abraham Verghese Thinks Medicine Can Do Better (Update)
14 snips May 3, 2025
Abraham Verghese, a physician and best-selling author known for novels like Cutting for Stone, shares profound insights on the healing aspect of medicine versus mere curing. He emphasizes the need for doctors to prioritize patient interaction over technology and electronic health records. Verghese reflects on his unique journey from Ethiopia to America, highlighting the importance of empathy in healthcare during the early AIDS epidemic. He also discusses the integration of humanism in medicine and the invaluable role that personal narratives play in fostering change.
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From Orderly Back to Medicine
- Abraham worked as a hospital orderly after fleeing Ethiopia, gaining valuable insight into patient care.
- A forgotten medical textbook reignited his passion for medicine.
Frontline AIDS Care in Tennessee
- Abraham Verghese found himself on the front lines of the AIDS epidemic in rural Tennessee unexpectedly.
- He followed 100 HIV patients in a small population, learning much from them despite the pain.
Healing Through Presence
- Visiting a homebound HIV patient deeply reassured the patient and family despite lack of medical cure.
- This reflected the healing power of presence beyond physical treatment.