Has the "grand" gone out of rounds?

Read an interesting article in the New York Times, "Socratic Dialogue Gives Way to PowerPoint," written by Lawrence K. Altman, M.D. Doctor Altman describes the history of grand rounds and how they have changed:

"Precisely when and where grand rounds began is not known. There are many types of rounds where doctors learn from patients. For example, there are the daily working rounds as doctors walk through a hospital to visit and examine patients. In teaching rounds, more senior doctors supervise the work of residents, or house officers, at a patient’s bedside or in a clinic.

Grand rounds were showcases featuring the best clinicians, and the practice thrived in an era when doctors knew little more than what they observed at the bedside. Professors often demonstrated characteristics of physical findings like an enlarged thyroid, a belly swollen with fluid or another grotesque disfigurement that the audience could see. Those with a flair for showmanship were often the best teachers, adapting the predictable structure to their needs and talents."

Doctor Altman describes how grand rounds have evolved, and perhaps not for the better. In any event, I recommend y'all read the article...look for the Lollipop case.