Ep 8. Physician, Heal Thyself

Becker Season 1 Episode 8: Physician, Heal Thyself

In this episode of Becker, the titular character Dr. John Becker finds himself in need of a physician when he is struck with a painful infection. Despite his gruff demeanor, Becker must swallow his pride and seek medical attention from his colleagues at the medical practice across the street, running into a variety of characters along the way.

Becker begins the episode hobbling around his practice, clearly in pain and causing concern amongst his office staff. When it becomes clear that the infection isn't going away on its own, Becker realizes he has no choice but to seek treatment. As he makes his way to the medical practice across the street, he runs into a variety of patients and colleagues who seem to relish in his discomfort.

At the medical practice, Becker is quickly seen by a rotating cast of doctors, including an over-eager resident who struggles to hide his disdain for his abrasive patient. Becker bristles at the various diagnoses and treatment plans suggested, leading to a tense standoff with the resident. Meanwhile, a sympathetic nurse tries to encourage Becker to take better care of himself, offering him advice and a bit of emotional support.

As Becker's condition worsens, he becomes increasingly irritable, snapping at patients and colleagues alike and alienating those around him. After several failed attempts to treat the infection, Becker is forced to confront the possibility that he might not be the infallible medical genius he's always imagined himself to be.

Finally, after much prodding and poking from his colleagues, Becker begins to come around to the idea of relying on others for help. In a surprising twist, he even manages to find a bit of common ground with the resident who initially rubbed him the wrong way. By the end of the episode, Becker has come to realize that even the best doctors need to rely on one another from time to time.

With its sharp writing, pitch-perfect performances, and clever plot twists, "Physician, Heal Thyself" is a standout episode of Becker that fans and casual viewers alike are sure to enjoy. The episode strikes a perfect balance between humor and heart, exploring the challenges of being a doctor with wit and intelligence. Whether you're a fan of medical dramas or just enjoy well-crafted television, this is one episode that's not to be missed.