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New Doctors, Trust and Technology

U.S. Food and Drug Administration Commissioner, Margaret Hamburg, M.D. gave the keynote at Albert Einstein College of Medicine’s commencement Wednesday evening. In a wide-ranging address, she laid out her vision and hopes for the graduates as they officially begin their residencies. A time, she said, “ that probably did more to shape me as a doctor, professional and a person, than any educational experience before or since.”

Margaret Hamburg, M.D., commissioner of U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Dr. Margaret Hamburg addresses Einstein class of 2012

 Dr. Hamburg discussed the pressures new doctors would face along with how evidence-based medicine can help doctors, researchers and public health leaders make the best decisions.

At the heart of her remarks, was a call to action. She reminded these newly minted doctors that being part of the medical community is not just about proving how knowledgeable they are but also about demonstating their humanity. Technology is not a substitute for judgment and compassion, she cautioned.

“While seizing the future,” she added, “I hope you’ll never let go of the past, the abiding tradition, centuries old of building the bond of trust and confidence that lies at the heart of medicine and science. That trust and confidence must be earned every day.”

Here’s a clip featuring more of Dr. Hamburg’s thoughts on doctors, patients and new technology.

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Comments on this entry are closed.

  • Lisa Fields June 13, 2012, 11:45 AM

    Thank you for sharing this remarkable Keynote during your commencement. Her call to action is so appropriate.
    LIsa

    • The Doctor's Tablet Editors June 18, 2012, 2:33 PM

      You’re welcome, Lisa. Thanks for the feedback.