Spend a few minutes watching a top medical show and you will probably realize that many aspects of hospitals and doctor’s offices on TV aren’t realistic. Amidst all the drama, there are still valuable lessons to be learned from our favorite fictional doctors. We uncovered a few in part 1, and here is more from the most popular TV doctors.
Lesson 1: The Answer Isn’t Always Obvious
On House MD, Dr. House was skilled at solving the most challenging medical cases. He did this by looking for the less-obvious answers. While the old saying goes, “If you hear hoofbeats, think horses - not zebras,” sometimes you have to consider that a zebra could be on the loose. Dr. House was a skilled and well-respected doctor because he realized that the answer isn't always going to jump out and grab you.
Lesson 2: It’s Okay to Show Emotion (Even for Men)
One of the most fascinating aspects of the television program Scrubs is that the young men weren’t afraid to show their emotions. Whether that meant having a good cry over a beloved patient or telling a good friend they loved them, emotion was never held back. We can all benefit from taking this lesson to heart. Don't be afraid to “wear your heart on your sleeve” and let others know how you're feeling.
Lesson 3: Life Goes On
On Grey’s Anatomy, as well as in other medical shows, there is always the drama that seems to touch the lives of the doctors and staff. While they do take time to mourn and care for themselves, at the end of the day, life goes on - just like in real life. While you may not face as much drama as the staff on this show does, keep in mind that the sun will rise tomorrow and life will continue moving. This may give you the encouragement you need to push past your barriers.
Lesson 4: Different Isn’t Always a Bad Thing
The Good Doctor isn’t your typical swaggering TV doc. Instead, he has autism spectrum disorder and is a quiet, introspective man. This show discusses the possibility of succeeding in a challenging field even if you are different than what most people expect. No matter what it is about you that makes you different, embrace it and figure out ways that you can use those differences to be the best at your job and in life.
Lesson 5: It’s Possible to Rise Above Circumstance
Code Black offers a twist on the typical medical drama in that the ER it focuses on is understaffed and has a constant shortage of resources. However, each week the staff is able to work medical “miracles” even despite this. The staff is always willing to go the extra mile to serve as a successful team, even if they don't have all the same benefits available to them that others may have. Take this lesson to heart and remember that no matter what your circumstance, it is possible to rise above with hard work and effort.
Medical dramas and fictional doctors aren’t only fun to watch, but they offer valuable lessons that can be applied to your work and life. Next time you sit down to your favorite medical show, read between the lines and see what other lessons you can find. It may surprise you what’s there for you to learn.
