You Want a Clinician Who Treats You as Person
Psychology Today
by Mitchell B. Liester M.D.February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A recent article highlights a critical question in healthcare: Should doctors treat diseases or people? The story of two patients with identical diagnoses and treatments but vastly different outcomes underscores the importance of personalized care. While evidence-based medicine (EBM) has long been the cornerstone of treatment, relying solely on standardized guidelines may fail to account for individual differences.
Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM), formalized in the 1990s by David Sackett, emphasizes using large-scale studies and clinical trials to determine the most effective treatments. However, this approach often overlooks diverse patient populations, such as women, older adults, children, people of color, and those with multiple conditions. The "average patient" is a statistical construct that doesn’t truly exist, leading to treatments that may not work for real individuals.
The article emphasizes the importance of understanding each patient’s unique circumstances—such as their job, family, fears, and preferences—a practice rooted in clinical science. Factors like financial stress, social support, or past experiences with mental illness can significantly impact treatment outcomes. For example, a firefighter working long shifts may require tailored care, as may a single father struggling to manage prescriptions.
The therapeutic alliance—the relationship between clinician and patient—is one of the strongest predictors of successful treatment. Studies show that even in medication-based treatments, the strength of this bond can be as influential as the drug itself. A 2017 meta-analysis found that patients with positive relationships with their doctors experienced better outcomes, while a 2024 study highlighted the emotional bond’s importance in determining treatment success.
This approach isn’t just compassionate; it’s effective. By understanding patients holistically, clinicians can provide more personalized and successful care. For anyone interested in health, this highlights why bedside manner and individualized attention matter as much as any medication or guideline.
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Originally published on Psychology Today on 2/26/2026