Torrance Based Physician Takes Whole Person Care to New Heights

While serving his internship in Fresno in the late 1970s, young physician in training Ira Byock had an interaction with a patient that would forever change his life. The exchange seems rather nondescript at first glance. “How are you doing this morning, Mr. Rodriguez?” Dr. Byock had asked. “I’m well,” Mr. Rodriguez replied. That was it. And yet, the patient was dying and knew very well that his days left on this planet were severely numbered. The moment left Dr. Byock perplexed.