Story Treasures

About the Book

Discover how storytelling and narrative unite us with the medical field in, “Story Treasures: Medical Essays and Insights in the Narrative Tradition,” by Arthur Lazarus, MD, MBA. The book is divided into two sections: Section 1: Essays Section 2: Insights Fifty narratives offer constructive viewpoints and insights that capture the resilience of the human spirit, the intricacies of the human body, and the profound impact of empathy and compassion in caring for patients. Each story is a pearl, offering a glimpse into the challenges, triumphs, and moments of introspection that define the medical profession and life as a whole. These stories are not merely anecdotes from the author’s career; they are reflections on life, the essence of being, and the universal quest for meaning in times of uncertainty. Through these narratives, Dr. Lazarus uncovers not only the intellectual and technical aspects of medical practice but also the emotional and philosophical dimensions that often remain hidden from public view—for example, career turmoil; generational conflict; artificial intelligence; and ethical and leadership challenges, to name a few. He extends an invitation to readers to pause, reflect, and appreciate the intricate dance between health and illness, life and death, joy and sorrow. Readers will find within these pages not only a deeper understanding of the medical world but also a renewed appreciation for the resilience and beauty of the human spirit. Join Dr. Lazarus in this journey, where each essay is a treasure, and each insight a gem. Collectively, his stories reaffirm the preciousness of life and the enduring strength of the human heart.

About the Author

Arthur L. Lazarus, MD, MBA, is a healthcare consultant, certified physician executive, and nationally recognized author, speaker, and champion of physician leadership and wellness. He has broad experience in clinical practice and the health insurance industry, having led programs at Cigna and Humana. At Humana, Lazarus was vice president and corporate medical director of behavioral health operations in Louisville, Kentucky, and subsequently a population health medical director in the state of Florida. Lazarus has also held leadership positions in several pharmaceutical companies, including Pfizer and AstraZeneca, conducting clinical trials, and reviewing promotional material for medical accuracy and FDA compliance. He has published more than 400 articles and essays online and in scientific and professional journals and has written eight books, including four related to the field of narrative medicine. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Lazarus attended Boston University, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology with Distinction. He received his medical degree with Honors from Temple University School of Medicine, followed by a psychiatric residency at Temple University Hospital, where he was chief resident. After residency, Lazarus joined the faculty of Temple University School of Medicine, where he currently serves as adjunct professor of Psychiatry. He also holds non-faculty appointments as Executive-in-Residence at Temple University Fox School of Business and Management, where he received his MBA degree, and Senior Fellow, Jefferson College of Population Health, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Well known for his leadership and medical management skills, Lazarus is a sought-after presenter, mentor, teacher, and writer. He has shared his expertise and perspective at numerous local, national, and international meetings and seminars. Lazarus is a past president of the American Association for Psychiatric Administration and Leadership, a former member of the board of directors of the American Association for Physician Leadership (AAPL), and a current member of the AAPL editorial review board. In 2010, the American Psychiatric Association honored Lazarus with the Administrative Psychiatry Award for his effectiveness as an administrator of major mental health programs and expanding the body of knowledge of management science in mental health services delivery systems. Lazarus is among a select group of physicians in the United States who have been inducted into both the Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society and the Beta Gamma Sigma honor society of collegiate schools of business. Lazarus enjoys walking, biking, playing piano, and listening to music. He has been happily married to his wife, Cheryl, for over 40 years. They are the proud parents of four adult children and the grandparents of five young children.