Ep 3. Ask Dr. Doogie

In the second season of Doogie Howser, M.D., episode 3 titled "Ask Dr. Doogie," we see a young Neil Patrick Harris continue to impress as the titular character, a young prodigy who is both a doctor and a high school student. The episode sets up a new subplot for the season as Doogie lands his own radio show, where he can give medical advice to listeners.

As the episode begins, we see Doogie in the middle of a hectic day at the hospital. Between juggling medical emergencies and studying for his next exam, Doogie is struggling to keep up. However, he gets some exciting news when his friend, and local radio personality, Vinnie, shows up in the hospital with a proposition.

Vinnie has a medical advice show that normally plays prerecorded answers to listener questions. However, Vinnie is getting bored and wants to shake things up. He offers Doogie his own show, where he can give listeners medical advice live on the air. Doogie is hesitant at first, but Vinnie convinces him to take the gig.

As Doogie prepares for his first show, we see him struggle to balance his responsibilities as both a doctor and a host. He attempts to answer listener questions while also dealing with a difficult patient in the hospital. Doogie's typical confidence is shaken by the pressure of his new job, and he begins to doubt his abilities as both a doctor and a host.

Despite his doubts, Doogie's first show is a hit. He answers questions ranging from "Is it dangerous to swallow gum?" to more serious concerns about cancer. However, Doogie quickly finds that his newfound fame has its downsides when a patient seeks him out for treatment. The patient only wants to see "the famous doctor on the radio," not realizing that Doogie is also a full-time doctor at the hospital.

Throughout the episode, Doogie struggles to maintain his dual identities. He wants to help as many people as possible, but he realizes that he can't be in two places at once. He also begins to question whether his radio show is doing more harm than good, as listeners start to diagnose themselves based on his advice rather than seeing a doctor in person.

In the end, Doogie comes to a realization about the importance of face-to-face interactions in the medical field. He decides to continue his radio show, but he emphasizes the need for listeners to consult with their doctors in person rather than relying solely on his advice. As the episode closes, we see Doogie back at the hospital, ready to face whatever challenges come his way.

Overall, "Ask Dr. Doogie" is a fun and engaging episode of the series. It introduces a new subplot for the season while also continuing to develop Doogie's character. Neil Patrick Harris shines in the role, bringing both humor and heart to the story. Fans of the show will no doubt enjoy seeing Doogie navigate his latest challenge.