From ‘The Pitt’ to ‘Doc’

The Enduring Allure of Medical Series

When Eric Ledgin, co-creator of “St. Denis Medical,” found himself in the hospital last year, he kept his involvement in a new medical series a secret from the medical staff initially. As he observed the hospital environment, he couldn’t help but draw parallels to the world he was creating on screen.

Reflecting on his experience, Ledgin shared, “I ended up having a kind of Matt-like nurse,” referring to a character from the show. “He was a very young guy who was a little neglectful, but not out of lack of care.” Eventually, Ledgin divulged his role in creating the series, finding humor in the situation and joking that any negative outcome would make it into the show. The everyday miracles and challenges faced by medical professionals and patients serve as a wellspring of inspiration for Hollywood, leading to the continued popularity of medical dramas.

In recent times, a plethora of new medical series have emerged on various platforms, offering fresh perspectives on the genre. From real-time depictions of emergency room shifts to soapier narratives set in hospitals, the medical genre continues to captivate audiences across broadcast and streaming services. Shows like “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Chicago Med,” and newcomers like “St. Denis Medical,” “Brilliant Minds,” and “Doc” showcase the diversity within the genre, exploring different facets of healthcare and human experiences.

Barbie Kligman, showrunner of “Doc,” attributes the enduring appeal of medical series to their relatability. She notes that while individuals may not find themselves in a courtroom or police station, a visit to the doctor’s office is inevitable for most people, making medical dramas resonate with a wide audience. The high stakes and universal themes explored in these shows draw viewers in, creating a sense of connection and empathy.

With an emphasis on character development, innovative storytelling techniques, and a balance of drama and humor, medical series like “The Pitt,” “St. Denis Medical,” and “Doc” continue to push the boundaries of the genre. Showrunners like Allen MacDonald of “Chicago Med” emphasize the importance of infusing humor into the narrative, creating moments of levity amidst the poignant stories unfolding on screen.

As the landscape of television evolves, medical dramas remain a constant presence, providing audiences with a blend of entertainment, emotional resonance, and a glimpse into the complexities of the healthcare system. Ledgin, Kligman, and Gemmill all agree that the enduring popularity of medical shows stems from their ability to capture the human experience, offering viewers a sense of hope and connection in times of need.