Picking Sides for Obesity in Physicians Article

The article and responses that were a part of this reading assignment pointed out many key arguments for positions on physicians and obesity. Although I don't consider myself in the best physical condition that I could be, I do agree that physicians should control their obesity in order to set a good example for their patients. The best way to gain credibility and acceptance of recommendations from a patient is to carry out the things they ask you to yourself. Before I even got to the argument about cigarettes, I was planning on using it as an example because it was the first thing that came to my mind. Health Systems such as SMDC have made smoking bans on a large radius surrounding the campus and have given other incentives for health care providers to make responsible choices.

Why can't similar programs be put in place for diet and exercise? Often, residents working long hours are given their meals in the cafeteria. While its a quick meal that saves on making a lunch or dinner at home, the choices are often limited, with most of the fresh produce available only during the daytime hours. At 2:00 after working all night without a break, the only foods left are dried up pizza and a corn dog. If hospitals worked to have better food programs for their employees and made greasy foods further away, they may be able to provide incentives for eating better. I know I often buy the junk food because its closer and easier and I could do a lot better with some healthier choices without the temptation of substituting with a side of fries.

Although the schedule for a physician often means long hours and odd sleeping patterns, that doesn't mean that there is no time for exercise. It may be difficult, but there are choices. I often will choose to watch a one hour television program while I could be out for a nice walk or run. The truth is, everybody is busy. I have seen business executives who work 80 hours a week find time for a morning run or at least strap on the walking shoes for a quick trip at lunch. If we, as physicians, expect our patients to squeeze into a smaller waist size by squeezing in workouts and making healthy food choices, then we really need to practice what we preach. I know I am still not good at making the right choices, but I hope I can learn from my healthier classmates, mentors, and patients how to take care of myself better so I can inspire others to do the same.