Yesterday was a very meaningful day for me… It was the day I was presented with my white coat. The white coat ceremony is a ritual or tradition in medical school that marks the medical student’s transition from pre-clinical and basic science course work to clinical and patient based learning. At my school it marks my transition from medical student to secondary intern in the clinic!
Our ceremony at NCNM was marked by speeches from faculty and students where they reminded us the import roll that we play as doctors in our patients’ well being and healing. They also compared the white coat to the sweater worn by Mr. Rodger in Mr. Rodger’s Neighborhood stressing the importance of when you put on that white coat, you are creating a safe and healing space for you and your patient.
Being ‘coated’ by my professor, mentor, and friend.
While we didn’t take the Natutopathic Oath quite yet… We recite it at graduation… It was given to us again to remind us of our role and purpose and calling.
Natutopathic Physician’s Oath:
I dedicate myself to the service of humanity as a practitioner of the art and science of Naturopathic medicine.
I will honor my teachers and all who have preserved and developed this knowledge and dedicate myself to supporting the growth and evolution of Naturopathic medicine.
I will endeavor to continually improve my abilities as a healer through study, reflection, and genuine concern for humanity. I will impart knowledge of the advanced healing arts to dedicated colleagues and students.
Through precept, lecture, and example, I will assist and encourage others to strengthen their health, reduce risks for disease, and preserve the health of our planet for ourselves, our families, and future generations.
According to my best ability and judgement, I will use methods of treatment which follow the principles of Naturopathic medicine:
First of all, to do no harm. To act in cooperation with the Healing Power of Nature. To address the fundamental causes of disease. To heal the whole person through individualized treatment. To teach the principles of healthy living and preventive medicine.
I will conduct my life and the practice of Naturopathic health care with vigilance, integrity, and freedom from prejudice. I wil abstain from voluntary acts of injustice and corruption. I will keep confidential whatever I am privileged to witness, whether professionally or privately, that should not be divulged.
With a whole heart, before this gathering of witnesses, as a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, I pledge to remain true to this oath.
Thank you all for your support of me through this journey! I am looking forward to seeing patients in the fall and continue to share my journey with you all.
This is preventive health! 