How People Live

Doing housecalls helps me better understand some of the limitations my patients face. From steep staircases to cluttered kitchens with piles of unopened mail on top of the electric stove, I see that some of them hesitate to go outside, some of them seldom cook eggs or fresh vegetables and some of them are probably great procrastinators.

Hearing their spouse interrupt and contradict their story adds a subplot to their narrative and watching them interact with their pets can help me see their tender and gentle characters that may not show in other situations.

The pictures on their walls can show me how family fills their life, and the objects on their shelves can offer clues to their interests and hobbies. We now have proof that lack of either connections or interests are negative determinants of health.

It is a privilege to be invited into someone’s home. Doing housecalls strengthens the connection between patient and doctor.

Read my housecall posts at https://acdw.substack.com/s/progress-notes