Beside Manner or Skilled Hands?
Imagine for a moment that you have been told that you need surgery. You have a choice between two surgeons:
The first has a wonderful disposition. He holds your hand as he explains the procedure, the risks, the rewards, and the likelihood of success. He may even shed a tear as you deal with the shock. His bedside manner is incredible; however, his personal success rate for this surgery is 80%.
The second doctor is a bit of an jerk… cold, with a “just the facts” approach. She seems to look right through you as she delivers her strategy for your recovery. At the same time, her personal success rate is 99%.
Who do you pick to do the surgery?
Well, your choice may be swayed by whether the surgery is life-threatening or not. Are we talking in-grown toenails or brain surgery here? Let’s assume it’s somewhere in between, say eye surgery. Your life is not in danger, but I think we all want to be able to see.
