Saw the flipside of the Informed Patient this afternoon. I was in Stornoway Library, working on another historical project, when I overheard a conversation between a library customer and the librarian. The person concerned asked the librarian to look up certain symptoms on the Internet. Although the librarian correctly advised her to consult a doctor, she insisted on telling the whole story and nothing but the whole story.
Medical diagnosis sites (for want of a better description) cannot take the place of a real doctor, and should at best only be used for general guidance. You can be sent completely up the wrong road, initiate incorrect or inappropriate treatments. The problem with the NHS today is that it can take weeks to get an appointment, the doctor only has 10 minutes zero seconds to see you, and will probably start writing a prescription five seconds after you open your mouth. Yes, that's a crass generalisation, but it is the way people view the Health Service. The problem in the case above was that it had to do with "very personal" problems, still surrounded by a taboo.
Of course, it's not on to see a doctor about every sniffle, you have to exercise judgment. Any high-street chemist will be willing to advise, and you don't need an appointment or wait for ages. But for any serious problems: speak to a doctor, if necessary take yourself to A&E.
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Whatever practice I've run, 25% of the patients won't call unless they are blind & 25% call 10 times if they can't get the cap off the vitamin bottle. ~ Mary
ReplyDeleteBetween the media giving everyone histerics whenever they report a new disease and illness and the high cost of medicine, people don't seem to think to clearly these days. I do agree common sense should prevail. Anything beyond the common cold should be checked out. (Hugs) Indigo
ReplyDeleteI think that people do well if they research an illness if they are already diagnosed by their Doc. The problem does lie in trying to diagnose themselves. That's dangerous.
ReplyDeleteYour description of the 10 minute visit is much like we have here. No difference if you ask me. Although, I am able to get an appointment the same day if necessary. Which has been a blessing!
Pam