| abstract | This dissertation begins an academic conversation about physicians who practice medicine as micropractitioners.
By exploring this physician subset and their style of practice, a scholarly discourse is established regarding physicians who provide care in a way
that does not underplay the physician-healer role. Unlike mammoth and cumbersome health care delivery systems that tend to obscure a physician from
routine care, the day-to-day practice of medicine for a micropractitioner situates the physician at every point of the encounter in an ad rem,
direct manner. This construct is built around the invaluable benefit of generous physician time with patients and the forging of meaningful therapeutic
alliances that continue across timelines. This author takes into account the make and mold of the physician-patient relationship, how technology impacts
the clinical accord, and the capacities of physicianship. The attributes of this physician population along with practice features were investigated
by means of quantitative and qualitative analysis. Through the instrumentalities of time, access, and technology, micropractitioners manifest physician
excellences. They are in tune and in touch with their patients. This author concludes that this physician cohort provides quality care comprised of
humanistic facets. Furthermore, findings reveal that physicians in micropractices recognize the importance of self-reflection and being well-grounded,
thus indicating they have an awareness of the implication of humility in their roles as physician-healers. |
