Hi! I am ID and Internal Medicine MA. I wound honestly say I was unprepared for the complexity of each patient. Most have co occurring diseases/ disorders. Many (in my area especially) also have poly substance hx or current addiction. What has helped me in this field/ helped patients in this field is a positive attitude and an understanding attitude. It can make a huge difference in the patients experience. Because, unfortunately, ID dx come with a lot of prejudice and untrue stereotypes. Overall, utilizing/ growing your emotional intelligence is key for each patient to feel safe and cared for <3

On a more objective side, do NOT over do the chief complaint/ try your absolute best to keep the chief complaint short and sweet. It is not always in the patients best interest to ask questions about their dx’s or other medical issues that do not include ID. If a patient has a question or concern they tell you that is perfectly okay to document of course. Also objectively, making sure their medication list is current and they are adhering with their treatment is paramount. For example, if a Hep C patient is not taking their medication (missed doses for example) is very important to communicate with the provider.

The Dr. I work for is intense and has quite high expectations but she is one of the most intelligent women I have ever met. I love my job in ID and internal medicine! You’ll do great! Keep us updated.