NOTE FROM TED: While some viewers may find this talk helpful, please consult a health professional and do not look to this talk as a substitute for medical advice. This talk only represents the speaker's personal views and understanding of social prescribing and mental health treatment. We've flagged this talk because it falls outside the content guidelines TED gives TEDx organizers. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdfDr. Brown challenges us to rethink what it means to truly care for another human being. Through a unique blend of old-school house calls and the restorative power of music, he paints a picture of healthcare that is deeply personal, profoundly emotional, and unexpectedly joyful. This talk explores how melodies can reach places medicine alone cannot—especially in the face of memory loss, loneliness, and chronic illness. With wisdom and heart, Dr. Brown reminds us that healing isn’t just about science—it’s also about presence, connection, and harmony. In a world racing toward efficiency, this is a powerful call to slow down and listen. Dr. Ernest Brown, widely known as the "Punk Rock Doc," is a dedicated house call physician serving the elderly and disabled in Washington, D.C. His unconventional approach to medicine emphasizes personalized, in-home care, reminiscent of traditional medical practices. Dr. Brown earned his medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine and completed his residency in family medicine at Georgetown University/Providence Hospital.In addition to his medical practice, Dr. Brown is the founder of Humans for Healthcare, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization committed to restoring patient-centered medicine through direct care, advocacy, and the advancement of healthcare technologies.This organization reflects his passion for reshaping the healthcare landscape to prioritize the needs and dignity of patients.Dr. Brown also serves as the host and producer of the "Earnest Medicine" docuseries, which takes viewers on a journey to uncover stories that connect us all, highlighting the human aspects of medicine. Through this series, he challenges the status quo in modern healthcare, aiming to bridge the gap between physicians and communities while integrating technology-driven solutions for improved care.His innovative work has garnered attention from major media outlets, including ABC News, which featured his efforts to revive house calls as a viable model for modern healthcare.Dr. Brown's commitment to personalized patient care and healthcare reform continues to inspire both medical professionals and patients alike. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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