As a Sports Medicine physician, you may be responsible for pre-participation physicals and clearing athletes for play. How would you handle discovering a potentially serious condition (for example, signs of a heart disorder) in an athlete who otherwise feels fine and is desperate to play?
Specialty-Specific
Purpose
This question digs into a tough ethical dilemma in Sports Medicine. Interviewers want to see how you balance an athlete's eagerness to play with your duty to keep them safe and healthy.
Tips
- Start by emphasizing the athlete's long-term health as your top priority.
- Communicate clearly and empathetically about the risks involved, using simple language.
- Outline a concrete plan for further evaluation and support, including referrals to specialists.
Common mistakes
- Don't downplay the seriousness of the condition just because the athlete feels fine.
- Avoid vague responses; be specific about the steps you'll take to ensure their safety.
- Don't ignore the emotional aspect; acknowledge the athlete's feelings and pressures they might face.