Abstract and Introduction
Introduction
Words matter. One only need conduct a cursory PubMed search to find thousands of results with this title and on this subject. The Words Matter Movement states that we must be "careful, thoughtful, and deliberate" communicators.[1] We are told that the wrong words lead to stereotypes, bias, harm, and adverse health outcomes.[1] Words such as "drug seeker," "frequent flyer," "convict," "noncompliant," and "homeless," although potentially accurate and descriptive, are said to be harmful and disrespectful. Note, however, that these words all refer to patients. With that in mind, let us examine some other words used in the medical field.
South Med J. 2023;116(7):535-536. © 2023 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins
