Meadbh said:And speaking of unprofessional behavior: in my experience, the small minority of people most likely to act unprofessionally are those who have essential skills, are already financially well set, and are narcissists with large egos. That combination sometimes leads them to think it's OK to be abusive to others who have fewer options.
In healthcare, a disproportionate number of these people are surgeons.
But I'm sure that doesn't apply to any member of this forum!
Thanks goodness I'm not a surgeon! Actually, I am in healthcare and the people who have been most abusive have been people in the administration who are very unhappy - I've been fortunate to not have any MDs treat me poorly and only one RN who was unhappy with the message I had to deliver. And so far, most consider me very professional - it's that military formality - sir, ma'am and Mr/Ms/Dr unless asked to become informal. What I don't take too well is threats to call my boss - huh? I gave them my phone number and said to feel free - I keep my boss informed of all.
As for being financially secure - I've found a lot of MDs are not...they've allowed their lifestyles to match or exceed their salaries. What has amazed me is the number of MDs married to MDs who are 'strapped' for cash - one cardiologist I worked with was bemoaning his wife's taste in houses and rebuilding them - and she's a double boarded physician herself in genetics and perinatology - whew!