Hail to the unsung heroes of American medicine

AMA Leader Commentary. By Yank D. Coble Jr., MD. April 21, 2003.

AMA LEADER COMMENTARY

A few words about current events in medical practice

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A message to all physicians from AMA President Yank D. Coble Jr., MD.

He's served during three wars with three tours of active duty, but my good friend and colleague Dr. Tom Peters still shows the same passion for military medicine today as he did in 1979, when he rejoined the U.S. Army as an active reservist just four years after the Vietnam conflict.

"Medicine done right -- whether in civilian life or the military -- is hard work," he told me from Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C. "But it's also fun work and important work. I'm proud to be applying the skills I have as a physician to the people who are doing something for every American."

Dr. Peters' words illuminate why nearly 9,000 physicians belong to the Selected Reserve, sacrificing weekends and vacations and, in times of war, leaving their families, practices and patients for active duty.

These physicians, as well as those who have dedicated careers to our troops, represent all that is best about American medicine. Their dedication should inspire us.

I know these physicians inspire me. But then again, the dedication of America's physicians never ceases to amaze me, even in times of peace.

For years, I have watched America's physicians willingly sacrifice for their patients. This sacrifice begins with a punishing work schedule that starts in medical school and doesn't stop until we retire. Physicians sacrifice time with our families so we can give patients the best care and keep up with advances in science.