Objective:

To explore the identity of physicians beyond direct patient care and reflect on the associated responsibilities and privileges.

Approach:

• Reflection on Identity: The author reflects on their identity as a physician after retirement, highlighting roles such as consulting, mentoring, and educating.
• Acknowledgment of Privilege: The author discusses their journey and the privileges of being a physician in the USA, contrasting it with the struggles of less fortunate populations.
• Social Responsibility: The article emphasizes the obligation of physicians to advocate for social justice and healthcare equity.
• Ethical Considerations: The author highlights the ethical responsibilities of physicians, referencing historical and contemporary figures in medicine.
• Future of Rheumatology: The article speculates on the future of rheumatology, emphasizing the need for humanistic and equitable patient care.

Key Findings:

• Physicians retain their identity and roles after retiring from direct patient care.
• There is a significant privilege associated with being a physician that should be acknowledged.
• Physicians have a professional obligation to advocate for social justice and equitable healthcare.
• Ethical practice and social responsibility are core tenets of the medical profession.
• The future of rheumatology requires a commitment to compassionate patient care.

Interpretation:

The article discusses the multifaceted identity of physicians and the importance of ethical practice and social responsibility.

Limitations:

• The reflections are based on personal experiences and may not represent all physicians' views.
• The discussion may lack empirical data to support claims about physician identity and responsibilities.

Conclusion:

Being a physician extends beyond direct patient care, encompassing a commitment to society and ethical practice.

Sources:

• Prayer of Maimonides
• Edmund Pellegrino's Ethics in Medicine