The most important innovation in medicine to come in the next 10 years: the power of the human hand.

Source: "A Doctor's Touch." TEDGlobal 2011. Jul. 2011. Conference Presentation. Additional Information: This quote by physician and writer Abraham Verghese is from Verghese's 2011 TED Talk about his philosophy of heathcare and medicine. The quote means that the most important "new" invention that will come about in the next decade is the reintroduction of the human element -- that is, a return to traditional methods of examination and treatment, including using simple human touch. According to Verghese, today's physicians have lost sight of the importance of low-tech, common-sense patient practices, including exhibiting a good bedside manner and diagnosis using informed physical observation. Watch the full TED Talk here: Abraham Verghese - A Doctor's Touch

“A Doctor’s Touch.” TEDGlobal 2011. Jul. 2011. Conference Presentation.