Realizing the unforgettably positive office visit

When dermatologist Steven K. Shama, M.D., talks about achieving the unforgettably positive office visit, he refers to "being in the moment" with each patient.

Dermatologists teach their patients but rarely focus on what they can learn from the people in front of them in the exam rooms. Learning from patients requires listening; truly listening, according to Dr. Shama.

Patients are messengers. Sometimes the message is that the dermatologist did something objectionable; sometimes, other things going on in the patient's life are causing them to be angry.

Is everyday perfect? The answer is no, but at least dermatologists know that they have had multiple unforgettable office visits.