Science advances one funeral at a time.

The title quote is by Nobel prize winner Max Planck, the German theoretical physicist who originated quantum theory. Today's On Being podcast discusses the evolution of medicine as a vibrant and dynamic force and the crossroads from where we all observe.

James Gordon cautions against algorithms and a knee-jerk reflex to codify disease. He reminds us that we are changing on a cellular and physical level at every instant and need to be addressed as individuals. The science bears this out as we increase our knowledge of unique phenotypes that respond to specific treatments and not to others.

"The superior physician does not just treat disease, but teaches society and forms the intentions of humanity.
Sun Simiao

Listening to this panel discuss their own experiences with healing both as patients and healers provides an interesting context to how we envision the future of medicine. This past year I learned to write about disease and illness as separate and distinct concepts.

I encourage you to listen and hear how there is an evolving distinctinction between healing and curing and what it means for the patients we serve. If you enjoy the podcast please share with your family, friends, and professional network. 

​It is important that we communicate authentically about what we hope to see evolve when we speak of health and healing.
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A transformation of medicine is underway — a transition from a science of treating disease to a science of health. Mark Hyman is a family physician and a pioneer in the new discipline of functional medicine. James Gordon is an expert in using mind-body medicine to heal depression, anxiety, and psychological trauma. Penny George became a philanthropist of integrative medicine after she experienced cancer in mid-life. With Krista, before a live audience at the University of Minnesota, they discuss the challenge and promise of aligning medicine with a twenty-first century understanding of human wholeness.--On Being

I encourage you to lean into the audio and think deeply about the lessons we can learn from the evolving healthcare landscape. We all know that health is beyond the pill--we are now vested in the influence of social determinants on our health and well being. The same pill in a different person--their unique nutritional habits, support systems, access to social relationships, socioecomnomics and level of education--will have demonstrably different effects.

We need to think of Wayne Gretzky and apply his famous motto to modern approaches to healthcare. 

"I skate to where the puck is going to be, not where it has been." - Wayne Gretzky