I have been contemplating the content of our first blog for some time, and I have decided to make it more personal than just our latest practice news. This is an opportunity for you to get to know our practice on a philosophical level.  As we go along , we can use this blog to update our projects, plans, and changes.

I recently saw one of my patients 4 months following a mandibular tumor resection with immediate reconstruction.  He is a pastor, and this diagnosis significantly threatened his facial form and function.   His result was the best we could have hoped for, and after I photographed, measured, and marveled at the result, I asked what he thought about it.  His answer was interesting.  He was mostly impressed that, one night, when he was having anxiety about the upcoming procedure, I spoke to him by telephone until 11 pm. 

That reminded me that there is a distinct difference between being a good surgeon and a good doctor.  The necessity  of continuing education, treatment planning, and giving  our best for every patient cannot be overstated, but what is really important to all of us, is to be genuinely cared for.  Our office bulletin board is full of examples like “Dr Burchfield, thanks for being so kind when you saw my dad” or “Dr Shea, thanks for calling me after surgery.  I’m doing great!”, and “your staff made me feel so at ease”. None of these mention how nice the wound was sutured or how quickly the procedure was performed.

I am very proud to be part of a group that values the importance of caring for  patients and realizes what a privilege it is.  It takes a collective philosophical approach that starts at the top and is embraced by everyone.

We will continue using the latest techniques and technology, and improving our surgical skills.  But, more importantly, we will continue to be good doctors. 

Dr. Greg Richardson

Stay tuned for updates on our blog.