The Art of Medicine: A Vanishing Treasure?

Like many of you, I consider myself lucky to have trained at a medical school that prided itself in having many outstanding professors, some of whom are still considered to be “giants” in their respective areas of expertise. Although the technology available at that time was less precise and at times more invasive, there was particular focus on detail—taking a thorough history and doing a complete physical examination were the hallmarks of good medical practice. I remember gathering around the bed of a patient as my professor described “interesting wave forms” in the neck; maneuve...