When I was younger I used to hate going into stores and having sales assistants talk to me - asking about my clothes or offering to help me find things. I also didn't like schmoozing with the woman who cut my hair. In other words, I was incredibly shy. One thing I always liked, however, was my pediatrician. He was the nicest man. He would tell me stories about his kids while getting ready to give me a shot so I wouldn't get too scared. His chattiness made me look forward to doctor's visits, while a chatty sales clerk would cause me stress.
This morning we had a segment on chatty doctors - how doctors talking to patients about their personal lives can take away from the doctor experience and possibly hinder your health. WATCH VIDEO. Researchers visited doctors posing as patients and recorded conversations. While some examples were extreme - one doctor comparing his or her weight with a patient's - I have to wonder if doctors chatting is actually a serious problem?
Everything in moderation of course - I do think comparisons between doctors and patients should be avoided - but I have to admit, I like having a personal connection with a doctor. At the same time, if the conversation veers into a too-personal realm, it can also be awkward. How can doctors walk the line of connecting with patients on a personal level without overstepping their boundaries? Is it just a matter of common sense?
Have you ever felt put on the spot by your doctor? Do you think doctors should avoid personal conversations altogether? Send us your thoughts...