A famous quote from Paracelsus states “Medicine is not only a science; it is also an art. It does not consist of compounding pills and plasters; it deals with the very processes of life, which must be understood before they may be guided.” This is likely the early basis for the common phrase that medicine is as much an art as a science.

I personally adore science. My initial foray into medicine was in a research laboratory, and this was where I expected to remain. And while I have the utmost respect for my colleagues who have done so, I became interested a broader context—treating the patients for whom scientists were seeking answers, treatments, and ideally cures. In doing so, I have had the privilege to help many patients along the path toward optimizing neurological health.

The biggest lesson I have learned along the way is that my ears are my greatest tool. Doing my best to truly listen to patients increases the likelihood that I will be able to help them. Neurology is a tricky business—not simply because the central nervous system is one of the most complex parts of the body, but also because there are still a number of conditions for which we do not yet have cures. But this does not mean we lose hope; it means that we seek opportunities to optimize health to the best of our ability.

And so, what is my philosophy of care? To listen and learn from my patient, so that we both have the best possible understanding of the current condition, and to formulate a sensible plan to approach the problem.

Sometimes we are fortunate to find a straightforward solution. At other times we engage in trial and error before discovering the best regimen. In many cases, we work together over time to modify the care plan, as human bodies are not static. Is less medication needed? Fantastic, let’s pare it down. Do we need something more or something different? Okay, let’s discuss. Whatever the case may be, it should involve shared decision making as we journey together toward a common goal: achieving the best possible outcome.