Part of practicing family medicine is providing patient education. I have to be able to explain diagnoses and treatments and answer patient questions. A great example is when I diagnose overactive or under-active thyroid disorders (hyper or hypothyroidism). “Will I have to take this medication forever?” I’m often asked. “Yes.” “Will the medication work?” IsContinue reading “The Promises of Medicine”
Monthly Archives: July 2020
Why Family Medicine
I’m Kristina Polley, a Physician Assistant that practices Family Medicine. I’m referred by most of my patients as their “family doc”. Typically, that means that I take care of their high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid problems, weight issues, high cholesterol, anxiety, depression, and a few other chronic conditions. I’m the one they see for theirContinue reading “Why Family Medicine”
The Armor of God
Right when we thought we could open up movie theaters and gyms, we took a few steps backwards and ended up stuck in Phase 2 in North Carolina, with a mandate to wear masks in public. At work, I’m still seeing patients outdoors, either in their cars or on our front porch. I drape theContinue reading “The Armor of God”
Forgiveness
“That was a great mock interview!” I smiled and held back a childish squeal of excitement. “But you’ll never make it to medical school.” “What?” My smile slowly curled downwards. “You’ll never make it. You’re not good enough. You’re only a B student and there’s nothing on your current college transcript that says you shouldContinue reading “Forgiveness”
Algorithms
I LOVE algorithms! When presented with a symptom from a patient, I will always use an algorithm to figure out what’s going on in order to properly treat the symptom. For example, I get a lot of complaints from patients about chronic headaches. So, I use a series of questions in order to go downContinue reading “Algorithms”
Time is Elusive
As a Physician Assistant, I find myself reminding patients that healing take time. And I also find myself asking patients to give me time to figure things out. A sprained ankle or wrist can take 6-8 weeks before it feels back to 100%. Sometimes longer. Sometimes shorter. I remind patients that neck pain from whiplashContinue reading “Time is Elusive”
