I think that teachers and doctors should be the two most highly-respected and highly-paid professions. Both have the ability to have a lasting effect on the people they serve; and that effect can be either positive or negative. Bad doctors, like bad teachers, need to be purged from the system. But how can I tell whether this doctor is truly “bad” or is just having a “bad” day or is just stuck in a system that keeps him from thinking about ME and not just my back? In my first round of back issues (in 1984 I had a spinal fusion), I had one doctor who literally pressed his thumbs into my back – it hurt so much that I couldn’t breathe. Without knowing he was teaching me, I learned that I need to communicate “I’m in pain” BEFORE it gets too bad; he also taught me that I can walk out of a doctor’s office and never look back. (Although, I must confess that even today, when I hear his name I get the shivers. Yes, he’s still in practice…) Was he having a bad day? Does he like to see his patients in more pain? Does he not understand what pain feels like? Either way, he taught me those valuable lessons – but I’m glad I didn’t stay his patient.
I fear that good doctors are burning out because of the paperwork and other restrictions required by insurance and government. I know that good doctors are too rushed in their appointment schedule to adequately take time to help me. I know that good doctors are frustrated by their lack of ability to help or cure chronic pain – but I’m grateful that they’re beginning to see pain as a problem in itself.
I’ve been to many doctors since 1984, all different kinds, and for some different reasons. Here’s a truth that I’ve learned that I hope you’ll keep in mind: every medical professional has a bias towards his or her method of healing. A physical therapist will always suggest physical therapy. An orthopedist will always recommend work on your bones. A chiropractor will always want to adjust your back. A surgeon will always want to cut you open. (Although one surgeon told me that only about 30% of his patients got surgery. I wondered what he did with the other 70%?) In addition, seeing an older doctor will give you the benefit of years of experience; a younger doctor may be conversant with the newest thinking and techniques. As you can see, who you choose to visit will affect your treatment.
I realize that I have now spent an inordinate amount of time with doctors, and I would like to thank ALL of them for seeing me, for trying to help me, for referring me to others. I hope I don’t see any of you again for a LONG time… 🙂
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