Why I Write.

ABSTRACT

A practicing physician and oft-published columnist, the author reflects on her journey as a writer. For doctors who like or wish to write, reflections are offered about using writing as a public platform from which to elevate issues important to the doctor-patient relationship. At the same time, the public platform also constitutes a responsibility to be accurate, ethical, and respectful. The author shares guiding questions that writers can ask before or as they write. Attending to these questions will support compassionate, respectful, factually accurate, relevant, and insightful commentary that embodies physician integrity and reflects a thoughtful doctor-patient relationship.