Reading the forums I can not help but notice the amount of medical advice that is been given. I am not a doctor yet but am currently a final year medical student and to say the least some of the information being offered is not what I would consider near best practice. Often people seem to making diagnosis/recommendations when lacking basic necessities of clinical practice or with any ethical right to do so.
When making any diagnosis or recommending any treatment at a minimum 3 basic tenants should apply
1. A decent patient history regarding the current as well as any complicating medical issues
2. A physical examination i.e looking at the injury and assessing the problem
3. Referenced information regarding the source of their recommendations for treatment. Do these people giving advice simply search Dr Google or do they read medical textbooks/journals etc.
(Investigations e.g. biopsy/Xrays etc are required if indicated)
People are often unhappy with the diagnosis/treatment plans of their family docotrs and this is often justified. I will be the first to admit that the doctor is not always correct. However when seeking a second opinion why not seek it from an alternative qualified health professional. It does not always have to be a doctor. Often the best people to consult are people such as physiotherapist, community nurses or your local pharmacist.
Andrew
When making any diagnosis or recommending any treatment at a minimum 3 basic tenants should apply
1. A decent patient history regarding the current as well as any complicating medical issues
2. A physical examination i.e looking at the injury and assessing the problem
3. Referenced information regarding the source of their recommendations for treatment. Do these people giving advice simply search Dr Google or do they read medical textbooks/journals etc.
(Investigations e.g. biopsy/Xrays etc are required if indicated)
People are often unhappy with the diagnosis/treatment plans of their family docotrs and this is often justified. I will be the first to admit that the doctor is not always correct. However when seeking a second opinion why not seek it from an alternative qualified health professional. It does not always have to be a doctor. Often the best people to consult are people such as physiotherapist, community nurses or your local pharmacist.
Andrew