Great podcast episode looking at the history of the stethoscope and it's role today in the practice of medicine. Very interesting how the introduction of the stethoscope in the 19th century led to worries about technology coming between doctors and patients, which parallels our views today about any new diagnostic modality.

No piece of technology can replace the physical exam when you consider timeliness, cost, comprehensiveness, and the connection it provides for the doctor-patient relationship.