Stanford Medicine X Magical Mystery Tour: Shock & Awe

In my opening blog I admitted that I had no idea what to expect at Medicine X, but that Stanford was working its magic on this hometown girl.  After three days basking in the glory of unforgettable people, brilliant inventions (scan the QR code on my badge!) and collaborative genius, I was rendered speechless for a week. 

In fact, as a Licensed Psychotherapist I invented a new syndrome for the DSM-V: Post MedicineX Bliss Disorder, caused by information overload, brain-drain, and oxytocin induced euphoria.  
 
Seven days later I have not recovered entirely, but will do my best to share some of my favorite parts in Jackson Pollock splatter style. 

Fascinating Factoids, Memorable Moments, Quotable Quotes

I'm not self-tracking for myself; I'm self-tracking for the next person." @seanahrens

By self-tracking Allan Bailey learned that adding butter to coffee keeps his blood sugar from spiking. ‏@zirpu

 

Doctors more open to our data if our charts are simple @katiemccurdy

 

 On shifting doctor/patient roles:

Wrong to assume that patients want to know only what doctors want to explain. ~Susannah Fox  


Physicians no longer control information" - @Doctor_V

 

 

  "I just want to work with a doctor who will believe me" @katiemccurdy

 

 

 

 Michael Graves, architect,

 paralyzed from chest down by nervous system infection.

His room had a mirror too high, faucets and electric outlets out of reach! THINK OF IT: Hospital rooms without handicap access!

Graves used self-deprecating humor as he faced tragic illness,  "This hospital room is too ugly to die in." NOW redesigns healthcare facilities for PATIENTS first!

Safety, comfort for patient: to prevent infection use a simple disposable cover over the TV remote control.

Regina Holliday uses her art to tell the all-too-familiar tale of patients unable to get their own medical records

THAT IS REGINA BEGGING FOR HER HUSBAND'S RECORDS courtesy of Regina Holliday

Regina, you are force of nature!

TECHNOMAGIC

Blood sugar monitor app for smartphones 
Hospital gowns made of smart material that monitors 
vital signs @wearabletech

Everyday clothing with technology built-in without losing comfort and fashion. Sonny Vu

The ICD is "defective by design" data goes to everyone BUT the patient!  Hugo Campos

One million patients with remote monitoring by manufacturers: not ONE PATIENT has access to own data! Hugo Campos

Closing thought:
There is a tension between the power and potential of technology in health care and the essential need for human engagement.  It may be true that, "Health reform is just not possible without technology" (Louise Schaper), but all of the tracking and technology still requires human interaction for full effect.