Chicago Med: When the Best Treatment is No Treatment at All

Exploring the Complexities of Doctor-Patient Relationships

One of the most captivating aspects of a medical drama is the uniqueness of each patient and the intricate doctor-patient relationships that develop. Every case presents a learning opportunity, even for the most seasoned physicians. This week, the doctors of Chicago Med grappled with the challenging notion that sometimes the best course of treatment is no treatment at all.

Dr. Choi’s Struggle with a Bipolar Patient

Dr. Choi finds himself treating a patient in renal failure, unaware that her condition was caused by the lithium she was taking for bipolar disorder. When Dr. Charles inquires about Dr. Choi’s experience with bipolar patients, Choi becomes evasive. Dr. Charles speaks with the patient, who decides to continue her lithium treatment despite the risks to her physical health, as she fears losing control of her faculties due to her bipolar disorder. Dr. Choi vehemently disagrees with her decision, even suggesting she “just buck up.” Up until now, little has been revealed about Choi’s personal life, other than his time in the Navy. His attitude stems not from arrogance or cruelty, but from the immense burden he carries from his experiences overseas. Eventually, the weight becomes too much, and Dr. Choi breaks down in Dr. Charles’s office, finally ready to seek help.

Dr. Rhodes’ Dilemma and Dr. Downey’s Secret

Dr. Rhodes treats a young boy who impaled himself on fencing wire, resulting in a hole in his heart. Dr. Downey takes over the case in surgery and requests that Rhodes, not Zanetti, repair the boy’s heart. Dr. Downey then asks Rhodes to assist him in a cardio surgery. Confused, Rhodes confronts Downey, explaining that he sees himself as a trauma surgeon. Dr. Downey respects his wishes, but Dr. Zanetti accuses Rhodes of cowardice for turning down such an incredible opportunity. Later, Dr. Downey is admitted as a patient and is revealed to have liver cancer. Suddenly, his actions make sense: knowing his prognosis is grim, Dr. Downey has been searching for a protégé. With this newfound understanding, Dr. Rhodes agrees to learn from the master.

Reese’s Lesson in Kindness and Compassion

Reese is becoming increasingly adept at navigating the ER, but her next task is far from glamorous. As a newcomer, she must pay her dues, which in this case involves treating a homeless man with lice. Her patient is a kind man who is deeply grateful for the opportunity to be clean for the first time in months. Tragically, he passes away before leaving the hospital. In his Patient Satisfaction Survey, Reese receives high praise from her patient, a testament to the impact of simple acts of kindness.

Dr. Halstead’s Personal Struggle and Professional Misstep

Dr. Halstead and Dr. Manning treat a patient with end-stage lymphoma who, per her wishes, does not want end-of-life care or extraordinary measures. Halstead, however, wants to give her one last chance and asks a friend to help get his patient into a closed clinical trial. His favor is granted, but the patient is not pleased. She politely declines Halstead’s offer, explaining that she does not want to spend the remainder of her life in a hospital. Halstead is upset, in part because his own mother’s battle with cancer is clouding his judgment. He refuses to back down, even attempting to persuade the patient’s husband to change her mind. When the patient’s condition worsens, Dr. Halstead goes against her DNR and Natalie’s wishes, jeopardizing his career. Far from being grateful, the patient is furious, and Sharon removes him from the case. Now facing a lawsuit, Halstead must also contend with Natalie’s anger at his dismissal of both her and the patient.

Which Storyline Captivated You the Most?

Each of these storylines delves into the complexities of doctor-patient relationships, the challenges of balancing personal emotions with professional responsibilities, and the difficult decisions that must be made in the world of medicine. Which of these storylines resonated with you the most?