Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine has introduced a new Center for Bedside Medicine to enhance patient-physician interactions. The center aims to blend traditional bedside practices with modern technology, such as artificial intelligence and digital devices. According to research, physicians currently spend only 13% of their time in direct contact with patients, leading to physician burnout and patient dissatisfaction.
Dr. Brian Garibaldi, the center's inaugural director, emphasized the importance of maintaining traditional skills alongside technological advancements. "We've lost sight of the importance of some of the traditional skills that still have value," he said. Garibaldi highlighted that one common error in physical exams is not performing them at all due to over-reliance on technology.
Garibaldi pointed out that AI could assist doctors by recording notes during consultations, allowing more focus on patients' nonverbal cues. He explained, "Part of what we’ll be doing at the center is reimagining what the clinical encounter looks like now that we have these emerging technologies."
The center will also address diagnostic errors by developing a volunteer-patient program called APECS (Assessment of Physical Examination and Communication Skills). This initiative will provide medical trainees with real patient interactions for skill assessment and feedback.
"There are many times where patients will say, ‘No one's ever examined me in that way before,’" Garibaldi noted, stressing the importance of hands-on examination.
The center's second focus area will be research and innovation to help physicians stay updated on available technologies that complement traditional methods. AI tools could potentially analyze data from digital recordings for diagnosis or even monitor operating room conditions.
Garibaldi mentioned the frequent interruptions faced by residents and trainees due to electronic communications or alerts, which can affect their ability to concentrate on patient care. The center plans to implement strategies to maximize effective use of limited patient interaction time.
“There’s a lot of uncertainty in medicine,” Garibaldi stated. He believes observing trainee interactions with real patients can help physicians manage uncertainty better and foster empathetic connections with patients.
Before joining Feinberg, Dr. Garibaldi held various roles at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and was involved in national health initiatives related to pandemic preparedness and COVID-19 response efforts.