Protocols and Patients

In treating patients, there is a benefit distinct

To following protocols, and not going purely by instinct

These protocols have been painstakingly devised

Based on scientific data and accumulated evidence, many times revised

Following protocols ensures uniformity in treatment

To provide standardized, high quality patient care is the intent

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There is a dictum that medical textbooks patients do not read

The same malady presents differently in each patient indeed

The paint-by-numbers approach that most of us learn

Does not always work, one has to discern

Subtle differences between patients, use an approach nuanced

To give each patient at healing their best chance

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A combination of medicine protocol-based and personalized

Is the best for patient care/ this is what I have over the years realized