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The Four Qualities of Effective Physicians: Practical Ayurvedic Wisdom for Modern Physicians
Does the art of medicine matter? Does it really help us become better doctors and improve results? Dr. Claudia Welch explores how the effectiveness of a physician extends far beyond the ability to prescribe correct treatments, and how mastering the art of doctoring can make the medicine more effective.Drawing on Eastern medical traditions and experience as well as on Western science, Dr. Welch examines how we know what we know, the mechanics of doctor-patient emotional contagion, and the degree to which a patient's sensory experience in a medical office affects their experience of treatments delivered. Dr. Welch also offers practical steps that doctors can take to cultivate more refined perceptive abilities and improve results.Dr. Welch's book will be essential reading for all health care practitioners interested in understanding the art of their practice and how it can enhance therapeutic outcomes, including doctors of Ayurveda, Chinese medicine, Naturopathy, as well as western medical professionals and other complementary health practitioners.
- GenresNonfiction
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 10, 2015
6 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
About the author
Claudia Welch
6 books36 followersDr. Welch is a Doctor of Oriental Medicine and a practitioner of Ayurvedic medicine. She is an author of Eastern medicine and philosophy. She has served on the teaching faculty of The Ayurvedic Institute, Acupractice Seminars, and the Kripalu School of Ayurveda. Dr. Welch regularly lectures on Oriental and Ayurvedic medicines internationally.
March 2011 marks the release of Balance Your Hormones, Balance Your Life, Dr. Welch’s new book, that combines Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medical theory with Western science to provide uncommon insights into hormones, women’s health concerns, lifestyle and diet. It is designed to be accessible for all women, and anyone who wants to understand women’s health, whether they are students or practitioners of Western medicine, Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, or simply of life.
Dr. Welch writes and lectures on Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine internationally, where she seeks to honor the outstanding teachers she has had the privilege to study with, through sharing the joy of Ayurveda with her students."
March 2011 marks the release of Balance Your Hormones, Balance Your Life, Dr. Welch’s new book, that combines Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medical theory with Western science to provide uncommon insights into hormones, women’s health concerns, lifestyle and diet. It is designed to be accessible for all women, and anyone who wants to understand women’s health, whether they are students or practitioners of Western medicine, Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, or simply of life.
Dr. Welch writes and lectures on Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine internationally, where she seeks to honor the outstanding teachers she has had the privilege to study with, through sharing the joy of Ayurveda with her students."
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
December 17, 2018
Becoming the medicine.
November 22, 2015
This review originally appeared on my blog at www.gimmethatbook.com.
Thanks to NetGalley for offering this book for review!
I was pretty excited to see what this book would have to say about combining the tenets of Eastern and Western medicine, for there are certainly values to both. However, I was consistently underwhelmed by the author’s ideas, and some of them seemed way out there.
Perhaps it’s instinct to me that a physician cares for his patients, that he takes care of his own health, that he provides a welcoming and healing atmosphere for them. Apparently this does not always happen, as Welch puts forth all these suggestions in the book. I will say, that the idea of making waiting rooms a little quieter and mellower with soft colors and quiet music sounds wonderful. HIPAA laws force sick people to sit in rooms with the TV blaring away, lest we overhear sensitive health information belonging to other patients. There has got to be a better way, and Welch outlines this in a way that had me in full agreement. (See chapter 12, Healing Through Environment.)
However, the rest of the book was not captivating to me at all. Her suggestions for communication between doctors and patients were all spot on, but again common sense for me. Do all doctors talk the same way to everyone? I thought they were more empathetic, seeing the patient’s personality and using a method of communication modified to each person.
Another suggestion is to have longer appointments and sit quietly so the doctor can feel the patient’s vibrations and let the body tell the history. In today’s hustle and bustle double booked appointment schedule, there is probably no way any doctor will be able to sit quietly with a patient and take their pulse for 15 minutes, and look into their eyes and their soul and figure out if their Qi is unbalanced. I’m sure a little dose of slowing things down would be immensely helpful, but that’s not how it’s done in Western medicine. Perhaps this is one area that would benefit from the author’s suggestions.
Welch also talks about doctors keeping an optimistic outlook for very sick patients, saying that multiple studies have proven the effect of positivity. (Chapter 19, Choosing Hope.) That is also a no brainer for me, and seems to be the norm in my dealings with my own doctors. I’ve never had one tell me things were hopeless, and I’m also sure doctors who treat people with cancer are as supportive as they can be.
In Chapter 32, Reflections on Part III, the author talks about the benefits of dexterity; not solely physical, but mental and emotional as well.
Practicing dexterity keeps our thinking flexible and our minds open and receptive to possibilities beyond our ability to predict. This can only further refine our confidence, humility, communication, empathy, and diagnostic accuracy, and result in better outcomes for our patients. (I)t would not be amiss to add dexterity to the list of qualities central to the art of medicine.
This may be all I found germane in this book. Throughout the pages can be found stories that strain credulity; such as the tale of how a guru healed a boy after all else failed, simply because the guru was leading a purified life and had disciplined thoughts. There is another story of how the author’s sister was in labor, ACTUAL labor two months early, and the power of positive thinking stopped the labor. I found that a bit hard to believe. (Or else it was Braxton-Hicks contractions, no matter what Welch says.)
When I read about a patient that had chronic yeast infections and it was determined that “astrological influences” were causing the infections, and all the woman had to do was continue taking the medication for 6 months (until the influences passed), I was ready to close the book and be done. The gap between Eastern and Western medicine is perhaps due to thinking like this.
Finally (yes, I kept reading) I reached a point where the author was talking about herbs and plants to heal. (Chapter 42, Potency.) The chapter progressed from information about biological responses, such as when plants secrete a noxious substance to protect themselves from insects, to a statement about being respectful to plants so as to preserve their healing qualities.
I agree we need to respect the Earth and treat our surroundings carefully; but I don’t feel that
If we are indifferent or violent to plants, they may alter their qualities and actions — their very chemistry — in an attempt to protect themselves from us. This may initiate a chain reaction, altering kindred plants, other species, and the environment.
At this point, I gave up reading. I felt I had nothing else to learn from the book. There are certainly practitioners and patients that will benefit from the ideas put forth in these pages, but I can’t say I agree with it all.
HOW THE ART OF MEDICINE MAKES THE SCIENCE MORE EFFECTIVE is well written, thought provoking, and does have ideas that will aid a thoughtful physician in his practice. But not everyone will agree with the Eastern medicine way of thinking.
Thanks to NetGalley for offering this book for review!
I was pretty excited to see what this book would have to say about combining the tenets of Eastern and Western medicine, for there are certainly values to both. However, I was consistently underwhelmed by the author’s ideas, and some of them seemed way out there.
Perhaps it’s instinct to me that a physician cares for his patients, that he takes care of his own health, that he provides a welcoming and healing atmosphere for them. Apparently this does not always happen, as Welch puts forth all these suggestions in the book. I will say, that the idea of making waiting rooms a little quieter and mellower with soft colors and quiet music sounds wonderful. HIPAA laws force sick people to sit in rooms with the TV blaring away, lest we overhear sensitive health information belonging to other patients. There has got to be a better way, and Welch outlines this in a way that had me in full agreement. (See chapter 12, Healing Through Environment.)
However, the rest of the book was not captivating to me at all. Her suggestions for communication between doctors and patients were all spot on, but again common sense for me. Do all doctors talk the same way to everyone? I thought they were more empathetic, seeing the patient’s personality and using a method of communication modified to each person.
Another suggestion is to have longer appointments and sit quietly so the doctor can feel the patient’s vibrations and let the body tell the history. In today’s hustle and bustle double booked appointment schedule, there is probably no way any doctor will be able to sit quietly with a patient and take their pulse for 15 minutes, and look into their eyes and their soul and figure out if their Qi is unbalanced. I’m sure a little dose of slowing things down would be immensely helpful, but that’s not how it’s done in Western medicine. Perhaps this is one area that would benefit from the author’s suggestions.
Welch also talks about doctors keeping an optimistic outlook for very sick patients, saying that multiple studies have proven the effect of positivity. (Chapter 19, Choosing Hope.) That is also a no brainer for me, and seems to be the norm in my dealings with my own doctors. I’ve never had one tell me things were hopeless, and I’m also sure doctors who treat people with cancer are as supportive as they can be.
In Chapter 32, Reflections on Part III, the author talks about the benefits of dexterity; not solely physical, but mental and emotional as well.
Practicing dexterity keeps our thinking flexible and our minds open and receptive to possibilities beyond our ability to predict. This can only further refine our confidence, humility, communication, empathy, and diagnostic accuracy, and result in better outcomes for our patients. (I)t would not be amiss to add dexterity to the list of qualities central to the art of medicine.
This may be all I found germane in this book. Throughout the pages can be found stories that strain credulity; such as the tale of how a guru healed a boy after all else failed, simply because the guru was leading a purified life and had disciplined thoughts. There is another story of how the author’s sister was in labor, ACTUAL labor two months early, and the power of positive thinking stopped the labor. I found that a bit hard to believe. (Or else it was Braxton-Hicks contractions, no matter what Welch says.)
When I read about a patient that had chronic yeast infections and it was determined that “astrological influences” were causing the infections, and all the woman had to do was continue taking the medication for 6 months (until the influences passed), I was ready to close the book and be done. The gap between Eastern and Western medicine is perhaps due to thinking like this.
Finally (yes, I kept reading) I reached a point where the author was talking about herbs and plants to heal. (Chapter 42, Potency.) The chapter progressed from information about biological responses, such as when plants secrete a noxious substance to protect themselves from insects, to a statement about being respectful to plants so as to preserve their healing qualities.
I agree we need to respect the Earth and treat our surroundings carefully; but I don’t feel that
If we are indifferent or violent to plants, they may alter their qualities and actions — their very chemistry — in an attempt to protect themselves from us. This may initiate a chain reaction, altering kindred plants, other species, and the environment.
At this point, I gave up reading. I felt I had nothing else to learn from the book. There are certainly practitioners and patients that will benefit from the ideas put forth in these pages, but I can’t say I agree with it all.
HOW THE ART OF MEDICINE MAKES THE SCIENCE MORE EFFECTIVE is well written, thought provoking, and does have ideas that will aid a thoughtful physician in his practice. But not everyone will agree with the Eastern medicine way of thinking.
December 6, 2018
“To the extent that Good is strengthened in the physician is the extent to which she has become Medicine”
January 14, 2023
As a person in the medical field I was so interested in this book and it didnt let me down. The subject matters were well covered and it gave a better understanding of how some things work.
February 19, 2025
[Note: This was a reference textbook (2020-2022) for us as Āyurvedic Practitioners at The Āyurvedic Institute, Albuquerque, New Mexico. I joined Dr. Lad's school as his last batch serving the community for 38+ years, i.e., before it was shut down. Dr. Welch was a Teacher and Trainer before I joined.]
Claudia Welch’s The Four Qualities of Effective Physicians: How the Art of Medicine Makes Effective Physicians is a compelling exploration of what makes a truly exceptional physician. Through a blend of medical wisdom, historical perspectives, and practical insights, Welch offers a fresh take on the essential qualities that define an effective practitioner beyond technical expertise.
At the core of this book, Welch identifies four fundamental qualities—presence, perception, purpose, and perseverance—that she argues are critical for any physician seeking to practice medicine with both skill and heart. Drawing on her experience in both Eastern and Western medical traditions, she presents a holistic view that emphasizes the intersection of science and the art of healing.
One of the most striking aspects of the book is its emphasis on presence. Welch convincingly argues that a physician’s ability to be fully present with patients is just as crucial as their medical knowledge. In a world increasingly dominated by technology and administrative burdens, her call for mindfulness and deep listening is both timely and necessary.
Her discussion of perception is equally enlightening. Welch encourages doctors to go beyond symptoms and lab results, advocating for a more intuitive and observational approach to diagnosis. By weaving in real-world examples, she demonstrates how honing perception can lead to better patient outcomes.
The chapters on purpose and perseverance resonate deeply, particularly in an era where burnout among healthcare professionals is a pressing concern. Welch’s reflections on maintaining a sense of purpose serve as a guiding light for physicians who may struggle with the emotional and psychological demands of their work. Meanwhile, her insights on perseverance underscore the resilience required to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of medicine.
What sets this book apart is its balance of philosophy and practicality. Welch does not simply idealize these qualities but provides concrete ways for physicians to cultivate them in their daily practice. Her writing is both insightful and accessible, making this book valuable not only for physicians but also for medical students and healthcare professionals at all levels.
Overall, The Four Qualities of Effective Physicians is an inspiring and thought-provoking read. Welch’s ability to bridge the gap between the science of medicine and the art of compassionate care makes this book a must-read for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of what it truly means to be an effective physician.
Vaidya Sunil Kanojia
Claudia Welch’s The Four Qualities of Effective Physicians: How the Art of Medicine Makes Effective Physicians is a compelling exploration of what makes a truly exceptional physician. Through a blend of medical wisdom, historical perspectives, and practical insights, Welch offers a fresh take on the essential qualities that define an effective practitioner beyond technical expertise.
At the core of this book, Welch identifies four fundamental qualities—presence, perception, purpose, and perseverance—that she argues are critical for any physician seeking to practice medicine with both skill and heart. Drawing on her experience in both Eastern and Western medical traditions, she presents a holistic view that emphasizes the intersection of science and the art of healing.
One of the most striking aspects of the book is its emphasis on presence. Welch convincingly argues that a physician’s ability to be fully present with patients is just as crucial as their medical knowledge. In a world increasingly dominated by technology and administrative burdens, her call for mindfulness and deep listening is both timely and necessary.
Her discussion of perception is equally enlightening. Welch encourages doctors to go beyond symptoms and lab results, advocating for a more intuitive and observational approach to diagnosis. By weaving in real-world examples, she demonstrates how honing perception can lead to better patient outcomes.
The chapters on purpose and perseverance resonate deeply, particularly in an era where burnout among healthcare professionals is a pressing concern. Welch’s reflections on maintaining a sense of purpose serve as a guiding light for physicians who may struggle with the emotional and psychological demands of their work. Meanwhile, her insights on perseverance underscore the resilience required to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of medicine.
What sets this book apart is its balance of philosophy and practicality. Welch does not simply idealize these qualities but provides concrete ways for physicians to cultivate them in their daily practice. Her writing is both insightful and accessible, making this book valuable not only for physicians but also for medical students and healthcare professionals at all levels.
Overall, The Four Qualities of Effective Physicians is an inspiring and thought-provoking read. Welch’s ability to bridge the gap between the science of medicine and the art of compassionate care makes this book a must-read for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of what it truly means to be an effective physician.
Vaidya Sunil Kanojia
September 22, 2015
*I was given a copy through NetGalley in exchange for a honest review!*
This book should be a must-read for any medical professional, especially doctors!
It is a good read for those that are not and are just interested in learning more about medical practice, but I really think that this is something that especially Western medicine professionals should read and take to heart!
Not only is this book a fantastic reminder that if you choose to become a doctor, you should never want to learn. Mostly because it is one profession were constant knowledge and updating of that knowledge is necessary to keep up with new ways. And because every single patient is different no matter how “common” the illness they have might be and with that the doctor will have to remember to change his/her approach to that patient.
I especially liked that towards the end of the book the author points out that people practicing medicine should only give the advice –be it in form of lifestyle changes, medication prescriptions or overall advice- if the doctor him/herself is actually capable of doing it themselves, or if they would take the medication they prescript.
I think that would stop a lot of doctors to give out as much pills that are not necessary if they would actually consider if they themselves would really take all that or if it is completely unnecessary.
What is also done very nicely is that the book is written in a way that you can simply skip the parts that are not directly related to the reader. The author herself actually suggests just skipping to the parts that sound interesting and reading that book that way. I did not do that, but i do have to say that i skimped over a few sections where i just did not find myself interesting in reading the entire passage. For example I did not read the chapter about sexual abused patients, since thank god I do not need that information and didn’t find it necessary to read through it.
This is really a book that reminds the reader that medicine is not just taking pills.
It is not just blindly following a doctors orders and not thinking yourself.
It is not just doing what others say is right.
Medicine and health is all about the art of balancing everything that has to do with the person that is in need of it.
It is a good reminder to everyone that doctors are humans and not gods –for the doctors themselves as well as the patients that blindly follow what ever the doctors orders.
This book should be a must-read for any medical professional, especially doctors!
It is a good read for those that are not and are just interested in learning more about medical practice, but I really think that this is something that especially Western medicine professionals should read and take to heart!
Not only is this book a fantastic reminder that if you choose to become a doctor, you should never want to learn. Mostly because it is one profession were constant knowledge and updating of that knowledge is necessary to keep up with new ways. And because every single patient is different no matter how “common” the illness they have might be and with that the doctor will have to remember to change his/her approach to that patient.
I especially liked that towards the end of the book the author points out that people practicing medicine should only give the advice –be it in form of lifestyle changes, medication prescriptions or overall advice- if the doctor him/herself is actually capable of doing it themselves, or if they would take the medication they prescript.
I think that would stop a lot of doctors to give out as much pills that are not necessary if they would actually consider if they themselves would really take all that or if it is completely unnecessary.
What is also done very nicely is that the book is written in a way that you can simply skip the parts that are not directly related to the reader. The author herself actually suggests just skipping to the parts that sound interesting and reading that book that way. I did not do that, but i do have to say that i skimped over a few sections where i just did not find myself interesting in reading the entire passage. For example I did not read the chapter about sexual abused patients, since thank god I do not need that information and didn’t find it necessary to read through it.
This is really a book that reminds the reader that medicine is not just taking pills.
It is not just blindly following a doctors orders and not thinking yourself.
It is not just doing what others say is right.
Medicine and health is all about the art of balancing everything that has to do with the person that is in need of it.
It is a good reminder to everyone that doctors are humans and not gods –for the doctors themselves as well as the patients that blindly follow what ever the doctors orders.
February 23, 2020
Wow! I have had this book on my shelf for a year and am just now reading it. I am so thankful and impressed with Dr Welch’s wisdom and insights. This book begins with deep, timeless philosophy and moves into a wealth of reasonable, practical and most importantly, uncomplicated approaches to caring for patients.
I plan to recommend it to all of my students and peers. Even though I have been a health care practitioner for over 20 years, this book has given me confidence to care for my patients in more meaningful ways. The addiction section was very enlightening and helpful as I don’t have a lot of training in this area even though I definitely care for many patients with addiction concerns.
The content in this book addresses relevant and prevalent conditions that humans face. It should absolutely be a book on every single health practitioners shelf regardless of training system - MD, DOM, Ayurveda, nursing, and etc...
I plan to recommend it to all of my students and peers. Even though I have been a health care practitioner for over 20 years, this book has given me confidence to care for my patients in more meaningful ways. The addiction section was very enlightening and helpful as I don’t have a lot of training in this area even though I definitely care for many patients with addiction concerns.
The content in this book addresses relevant and prevalent conditions that humans face. It should absolutely be a book on every single health practitioners shelf regardless of training system - MD, DOM, Ayurveda, nursing, and etc...
July 10, 2016
Another fantastic book by Dr. Welch. The ideas presented here apply not only to doctors, acupuncturists, and other medical professionals, but also to yoga teachers (where I fall along the spectrum) and other practitioners who are working with clients in an effort to heal at any level. As a patient, it has also given me a deeper understanding of and compassion for my team of healers.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews