Doctor Under Fire

Book excerpt: This autobiography describes my early life in England during which time I wore a badge of honor by deliberately performing poorly in school. Upon my arrival in America, I transformed myself, achieving academic success first in nursing school, and ultimately becoming a medical doctor. I have included memorable patient vignettes ranging from admirable and brave patients with challenging illnesses, and examples of humorous or bizarre patient encounters. Throughout my career, I have been a 'doctor under fire'. An example in this book describes the turmoil I experienced when my employer, a well known health system in Philadelphia, declined to renew my contract due to 'business reasons'. I decided to open an independent solo practice and I was honored because over 98% of the patients chose to follow me to my new office rather than remain with the prestigious health system. This subsequently becomes a 'David and Goliath story' after the deep pocketed health system sued me in court accusing me of soliciting patients. I punched back by counter-suing the health system because I felt strongly that, contrary to the belief of the health systems, patients are not property that is owned by them. Rather, a patient's right to choose their own doctor must always be respected.