Meet Dr. Alin Gragossian, a distinguished physician, patient advocate, and inspiring force in healthcare. Her journey took an unexpected turn in 2019 when she became a heart transplant patient, leading her to launch the blog "A Change of Heart." This platform beautifully intertwines her personal and professional experiences, championing organ donation and offering hope to those facing health challenges.
As a doctor turned patient during her heart transplant journey, Dr. Alin found herself in a unique position to understand healthcare from both sides of the bed. She share how this experience reshaped her approach to patient care, communication, and self-care as a medical professional.
Continue reading to learn more.
The Power of Clear Communication in Patient Care
Early in my heart transplant journey, communication became a crucial focus for me. I vividly remember my time in the ICU, where medical staff would come and go constantly. Because of my medical background, I could generally identify who they were and why they were there. However, I watched my parents, overwhelmed and trying to keep up with all the different faces—nurses, cardiologists, residents—all with their own roles and goals. It hit me how critical clear communication is, not just with patients but also with their caregivers. This experience deepened my understanding of the need to ensure both patients and their families are well-informed and comfortable throughout their care journey.
Bridging the Gap: Unexpected Challenges as a Doctor and Patient
One of the unexpected challenges I faced as both a doctor and a patient was the assumption that I had comprehensive knowledge about my condition simply because I am a physician. While my background certainly gave me a foundation, I’m not a cardiothoracic surgeon. There were complexities in my care that I didn’t fully understand, and it was frustrating when others assumed I could navigate everything on my own. This experience has taught me to never make assumptions about what my patients know or don’t know. Instead, I now focus on asking them about their understanding of their condition and what they wish to learn more about—or what they may not want to know in detail.
Advocacy: A Shift in Perspective
Living through this journey as a "patient-and-doctor" has significantly influenced how I advocate for my patients. I always understood the importance of advocacy, but seeing how easily things can be overlooked or misunderstood from a patient's perspective has truly opened my eyes. I now put even more emphasis on health education, ensuring my patients clearly understand their care and options. My hope is to inspire everyone—providers, patients, and caregivers alike—to advocate for themselves and their loved ones.
Balancing Care for Others with Self-Care
My personal health struggles have profoundly shifted my perspective on balancing caregiving and self-care. In my career, I was constantly in "ON" mode, moving from one task to the next without pause. Now, I’ve realized the importance of taking a step back and breathing. It’s okay to focus on my own well-being and savor the moments of calm. By taking better care of myself, I can be at my best for my patients and others who rely on me.
Conclusion
My heart transplant journey has taught me invaluable lessons about patient care, advocacy, and the delicate balance between professional duty and personal well-being. These experiences have fundamentally changed how I connect with my patients, approach communication, and prioritize self-care. I hope these insights encourage others in the healthcare field to embrace a more holistic approach to care—one that values empathy, clear communication, and advocacy for all.
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