Studs interviews three Cook County Hospital doctors: Dr. Tessa Fischer Dr. Mark Bonnell Dr. David Moore Main topic of conversation is the 18-day residents and interns strike at Cook County Hospital, Chicago, October-November 1975. At the time it was the longest doctors’ strike in U.S. history. Topics include: Patient care, benefits and wages, and working conditions. The distinction is made between a "strike" and what the doctors call a "job action".

Dr. Richard Selzer, a surgeon, reads essays from his book, "Mortal Lesson: Notes on the Art of Surgery." Dr. Selzer recalls moments of his profession that stuck with him including the removal of a diabetic women's leg and the removal of a botfly larvae. He also takes a poetic look at the liver and the skin, including a story about Henry Moss. Dr. Selzer finishes his interview with a story about his first time witnessing an abortion. A comedy skit by Mike Nichols and Elaine May is also played.