I was asked to offer a second opinion for a teenage girl who suffered a sports injury weeks ago. She came with an MRI report reporting a bone contusion with no injury to the ligaments. After my exam, I explained to the patient's father that I think she did suffer ligament damage. I requested a second opinion of the MRI images, and my suspicion of was confirmed.
As reported in the New York Times, Stanford University developed a curriculum emphasizing the art of physical examination. In our situation, the physical exam (not technology) led to the accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
I have never heard anyone protest when I state "this visit will take an extra few minutes because I need to check everything". I thank my mentors for inculcating in me the value of hands-on medicine.