ABSTRACT
Most physicians do feel pressured. When asked what they want most, one-third of primary care respondents to a survey picked more free time’. In today’s healthcare environment, most of the working day can be filled just carefully writing or dictating notes that satisfy the legal system, insurance, and quality control auditors. Not only physicians, but patients too need the gift of time and space – to talk into. Just as a gourmet dinner is the end product of a complex and sophisticated restaurant infrastructure, listening is the end product of a well-run, well-managed practice in which time and space and structure have been created to facilitate communication. It also requires a commitment to the basic human right of time for adequate sleep, rest, exercise, meals, and relationship for the practitioner.
