Navigating a Medical Career Post-MS Diagnosis

Being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can present significant challenges, especially for those in the medical field where physical and cognitive health are paramount. However, with proper management and accommodations, many healthcare professionals can continue their work. This journey involves balancing work with self-care and possibly adjusting career paths to accommodate new limitations.

The Shock of Diagnosis

For me, a family doctor, the diagnosis of MS came as a terrible shock. At the time, I was the director of a busy clinic for people without private health insurance, managing patient care, teaching responsibilities, and supervising a growing staff of about 12 people. My personal life was also busy, raising two young children. I spent every waking moment feeling overwhelmed.

The Unexpected Path

Upon hearing the news, I thought my career might be over. However, MS has impacted my medical career in unexpected ways. It has not kept me from seeing and examining patients or working full-time. I rarely have to take a sick day. Despite three notable relapses, MS has not caused me to have mobility problems, significant fatigue, or cognitive dysfunction.

Managing My Health

Proper medical care, including taking disease-modifying MS medication, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, has been key in managing my condition. My main MS symptom has been dizziness, but I've learned how to control that annoyance and function well, even on my dizzy days. This journey has taught me not only how to manage my own condition but also how to provide better care to my patients.

Connecting with Patients

The experience of going from doctor to patient has enriched my understanding and empathy. I've learned what it's like to be the scared woman waiting for test results and the challenges of facing a diagnosis of a potentially devastating chronic disease. While I generally don't share my experience with patients after my diagnosis, I began to feel a greater kinship with them that I didn't have before. This connection has made me a more compassionate and empathetic physician, which has positively impacted my patient interactions.

Reprioritizing My Life

MS has also helped me reprioritize my life. It gave me the permission to shift from patient care to a medical director position that allows me to work at a higher level to provide support to vulnerable populations and work to improve our broken healthcare system. My stress level is manageable, and my work-life balance is reasonable. I still see patients as a volunteer at a local clinic for homeless individuals, and I believe my MS diagnosis continues to impact these patient interactions in subtle ways, helping me to be more connected and compassionate.

Lessons Learned

While I resent having MS, I have let it be my teacher. Looking back over the last decade, I think it has helped me lead a more fulfilling life in many ways. It has taught me to be a better and wiser physician. The journey has been challenging, but it has also provided valuable insights and skills that I can now share with my patients and colleagues.

I hope my story can inspire others who are navigating a similar journey. By focusing on self-care, seeking appropriate medical care, and finding ways to stay engaged in the field, it is possible to continue building a fulfilling career even with a chronic condition like MS.