I think what medical training does is it gives you the language, the tools to look up facts. I think medical training gives you a sense of how to approach a problem, how to look at symptoms and go down the list of what it might be.

Tess Gerritsen’s quote emphasizes the practical value of medical training, particularly in how it equips individuals with the language and tools to understand and approach complex problems. By stating that medical training helps you “look up facts,” Gerritsen highlights the importance of acquiring a structured way to gather and assess information. She underscores the role of critical thinking in medicine—how to evaluate symptoms and systematically consider potential causes, a process that not only applies to medical practice but can also be beneficial in many other aspects of problem-solving.

The quote also suggests that medical training is not just about memorizing facts but about developing a mindset for analysis and methodical thinking. Gerritsen explains that the real value of this education is in teaching how to approach complex situations with a logical, step-by-step method, using all available resources. This ability to assess a problem, identify symptoms, and explore a range of possibilities forms the core of diagnostic work and can be applied broadly to various fields that require problem-solving skills.

The origin of the quote is grounded in Gerritsen’s own background as a medical doctor before she became a full-time writer. She brings her medical experience into her novels, particularly in her medical thrillers, where she uses her understanding of medicine and science to craft realistic and compelling stories. This practical approach to problem-solving, learned during her years in medicine, also informs the way she develops her characters and plots in her writing.

Ultimately, Gerritsen’s quote highlights how medical training serves as more than just a career path—it shapes the way individuals approach problems in any field. By teaching systematic thinking, evidence-based reasoning, and how to break down complex issues, medical training provides valuable tools for navigating uncertainty and finding solutions.