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4.21 AVERAGE
4.21 AVERAGE
Key takeaways:
- I really enjoyed the chapter about hernias, and how computers tend to be better than doctors at diagnosing conditions. It's easy to think that my experience makes me better in most cases than a computer or algorithm could be, but that isn't the case. I expect this would be true outside of diagnosing disease, and should apply in other fields as well.
- The hernia chapter also discussed the success of a hospital that only repairs hernias. They are significantly more efficient and have a much higher success rate. Again, this could likely be extrapolated to other areas of life as well.
- I really enjoyed the chapter about hernias, and how computers tend to be better than doctors at diagnosing conditions. It's easy to think that my experience makes me better in most cases than a computer or algorithm could be, but that isn't the case. I expect this would be true outside of diagnosing disease, and should apply in other fields as well.
- The hernia chapter also discussed the success of a hospital that only repairs hernias. They are significantly more efficient and have a much higher success rate. Again, this could likely be extrapolated to other areas of life as well.
hopeful
informative
medium-paced
I think this is Gawande's first book because it contains essays that were previously published. He highlights the critical thinking behind doctors' decisions, particularly the thinking surgeons perform. As the title implies, medicine is more complicated than autonomous responses to health problems. Medicine is a very human endeavor that is imperfect, requiring judgments, influenced by context and emotions and ever evolving.
True, Gawanade discusses several case studies in detail, but his purpose is to highlight the critical thinking behind those cases. Engaging and thought provoking.
True, Gawanade discusses several case studies in detail, but his purpose is to highlight the critical thinking behind those cases. Engaging and thought provoking.
Very good summary of the mysteries of medicine
Loved reading Dr. Gawande's simple descriptions of complex medical mysteries. I also loved that the book showed an honest picture of medicine that felt reassuring to me!
Loved reading Dr. Gawande's simple descriptions of complex medical mysteries. I also loved that the book showed an honest picture of medicine that felt reassuring to me!
A few of the essays were a miss for me, but overall I loved reading about where medicine and psychology meet in our modern healthcare system.
Entertaining, quick read. I was expecting a little more based on 5-star reviews on Amazon, but it wasn't a waste of time. I'd read his newest one, entitled "Better".
Interestingly framed as a narrative as opposed to a scientific report. Like greys anatomy but a book from an actual surgeon.
Not my favorite of Gawande’s (probably due to its age), but still a good read.
informative
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
Solid enough narrative on the reality of what its like to do surgery. engaging anecdotes