How to become the best clinician you can by Dr Marcelo Calamita

The information highway in this day and age can be overwhelming. To give you an idea of how extraordinary we have become as "human computers" in this technological age, the intellectual bits of knowledge we process in the average week equates to all we would have acquired in an entire lifetime in the 17th century. Amassing dental knowledge is also on a fast track and it is essential for clinicians to be able to assay the quantity of information available and to be discerning in ultimately determining quality.

I am frequently asked how I decipher between the overwhelming amount of ordinary information which is "pushed out' into our community and the quality information which I am able to "pull in". Unfortunately, the answer is not so easy. However, I am happy to share my thoughts.

Becoming a more complete clinician can be a daunting ask but starts with the desire to become a more well-rounded and complete individual in life. It requires a commitment to building a strong knowledge base or foundation from which we can continually grow.

I am in no way suggesting that one must become an encyclopedia of trivia. Instead, I am suggesting that an important part of growing is having the curiosity to seek out the information which is most credible and relevant to delivering the highest quality of care to patients who deserve no less. A better understanding of the basic dental disciplines allows us to then build information avenues which help us in more effectively connecting what we have already learned to data which is incoming and new. It also can help us to rethink or restructure information which we already have on board to utilize in new and possibly more meaningful ways. I believe that this is what fuels lifelong growth, both professionally and personally.

Here are some tips from my experience which may be helpful:

1. In order not to lose your way in this continuing education/technology maze, you must maintain focus. What are your areas of interest? Where does your passion lie? Although you might gravitate towards a specific discipline do not approach it with tunnel-vision. Do not lose reference to the whole. You should have a comprehensive understanding of a subject before you begin to "dig deep".
   
   
2. Build a library of good books first and then pursue quoted articles.
   
   
3. Seek out individuals who have struggled and made mistakes before. Learning from their experiences can provide shortcuts to more predictable treatment outcomes.
   
   
4. Find a mentor. Experienced and trusted advisers may be found in graduate and residency programs, from taking courses and finding knowledgeable instructors or by joining study clubs where a collaborative relationship can provide opportunity for extraordinary guidance. Prospective mentors should be proficient in the basic sciences and adept in their clinical abilities, and have strong communication skills.

Educational growth is a never-ending journey, as with all evolutionary processes. It is essential that you enjoy the process itself, as every accomplishment is not an end point and brings with it new challenges, endless and seemingly unanswerable questions, and possible frustration.

The most rewarding moment comes when you feel that you have something to share with your peers. Remember, earning respect and being able to influence thinking is only possible if you are able to gain a deep understanding of what you hope to convey. Teaching is a complex task and you must become a credible source of information to motivate others to change their feelings, thoughts, ideas, and attitude.

Paradoxically, I believe that the true measure of an excellent teacher is the ability to inspire others to initiate their own educational journey.

From the depths of my heart, I really hope to have opened some doors of perception and understanding in this short text.