The Veritas Forum Beyond Prescriptions: How Physicians Can Help Suffering Patients | Lydia Dugdale & Michael Menchine
Nov 20, 2025
In this thought-provoking discussion, Lydia Dugdale, a primary care physician and medical ethicist, and Michael Menchine, an emergency care physician and USC professor, delve into the complexities of suffering in healthcare. They redefine suffering beyond physical pain to include emotional and relational anguish. The duo highlights the importance of patient dignity, advocating for a supportive, emotional connection rather than mere clinical oversight. They discuss the roles of community and faith in alleviating patient suffering, ultimately urging a more humane approach in medicine.
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Suffering Is Broad And Multi-Dimensional
- Lydia Dugdale defines suffering broadly to include physical, mental, spiritual, relational, and emotional anguish.
- She distinguishes suffering from evil and highlights chaos as another source of suffering.
Pregnancy Case With Layered Suffering
- Lydia recounts a pregnant patient facing physical pain, relational pressure, and spiritual conflict about abortion.
- The case illustrates how multiple layers of suffering converge in a single clinical encounter.
Anguish, Not Pain, Defines Suffering
- Michael Menchine distinguishes pain from suffering by focusing on anguish as the operative factor.
- He notes severe pain doesn't always equal suffering, and social context shapes the experience.
