Mike Farrell and The Role of The Consultant

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Jose Garza recently shared this lecture from one of our mentors, Mike Farrell. I really enjoyed being able to hear and see him. This lecture discusses the role of being a consultant and how many things have changed over the years. It is amazing that Mike has been at Cincinnati for 50 years and has instructed so many residents, clinicians as well as GI trainees. The main task is still providing assistance to our colleagues in a respectful manner. I’ve included some of his slides.

Link: The Consultation: An Ancient and Venerable Process in the Modern Age

Often, the person requesting the consult does not know exactly why they are requesting a consult.
Dr. Farrell recommended documentation with phone consultation that patient
was not examined and to please call back if needed and patient could be seen.
Dr. Farrell says he often starts a visit with a family by asking ‘How Can I Help You?’
On the left: Dr. Schubert (one of Dr. Farrell’s mentors).
On the right: Christine Heubi, Jim Heubi, Mike Farrell and Peter Farrell.

On a separate note, Mike was honored recently by Cincinnati Children’s with the Drake Medal. Link: Mike Farrell, Recipient of Drake Medal Some of the accomplishments noted in this article:

  • Among the first to study the relationship between infantile apnea and gastroesophageal reflux
  • Helped define the hepatobiliary complications associated with parenteral nutrition
  • Participated in important studies defining vitamin D, calcium and phosphorus requirements in infant parenteral nutrition solutions
  • Invented the Farrell Valve Enteral Gastric Pressure Relief System, aka the Farrell bag—a disposable plastic bag that is connected to vent a feeding tube, which is now used nationwide.
  • Presented with the 2007 Murray Davidson Award from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)