Debate on overweight physicians

The first part of the article was by Robert Centor, who spoke about physicians as role models. I agree with his idea that physicians need to be role models. I really appreciate the comment that the article made about making exercise a priority during our medical school training. It would be very nice to have an hour set aside during the day to make sure every one gets physical activity. Another option could be having some kind of reward program for exercising. The second part of the article was by Pennie Marchetti, someone who argued that overweight physicians could perhaps build better relationships with their patients. I do not agree with this. I feel that we as physicians have the responsibility to not only be a healthy role model but also to treat every patient equally. I believe that a thin physician is still able to bond with their overweight patients. Marchetti writes, "Being fit and slim does not automatically make one a better physician." I agree with this comment, however, the patient needs to be able to look to their physician and know that the advice he or she gives is attainable.