A classic adage for ensuring success as an anesthesiologist are the three A's – being Able, Available, and Affable. In short, it suggests that success in one's career can be ensured if one is capable, takes time, and is friendly. Yet are they all equal? Some would suggest “ability” is mission critical, but it is assumed in our industry, just like safely flying on major airline carriers. Patients (consumers), surgeons, and administrators similarly take for granted that their physicians are competent. Likewise, “availability” is just the starting point. If there aren't enough people to “cover the shop,” the “shop” will find a team that can be available. However, being affable is an often-overlooked key element in physician-patient relationships as well as in business encounters.
Affability is defined as the quality of having a friendly and good-natured manner. While that may sound simple, there is a lot to explore beneath the...
