On Wed, 19 Jul 2006 20:40:07 +0100, Mary Fisher wrote
One of the main things is not to allow the bureaucrats to dictate the content of any medical diagnosis, treatment or therapy that I require, or other people if I know about it. On several occasions I have exposed their divergence from NICE guidelines and not backed down from a well researched position.
A second thing is to find a supportive GP who sees his role as a professional adviser and who does not expect to be placed on a pedestal. This was very simply achieved by researching any medical conditions that I had thoroughly and asking him for the adult explanation. For example, I want to know about HDLs, LDLs and triglycerides - not "good cholesterol" and "bad cholesterol". I want the exact figures, not the receptionist's story of OK or make appointment. I don't expect the doctor to resolve all the issues via the convenience of popping a pill each day.
A third thing is to inform myself by attending lectures etc.
These are all things that I can do which benefit me in one way or another. I make the time to do them. One can read through a lot of clinical research material while waiting in airport lounges.
There are many other things that I would like to be able to do but don't have the opportunity to do because I am frequently away from home. However, I can certainly contact researchers, patients, politicians and even bureaucrats by email.
Cocoa How have the mighty fallen OT. 722Umbrian It's not bad at all, but people still complain. My husband died two years ago of motor neurone disease - we had incredible support from everyone connected to the Health system from the moment he...
One does what one can. For the moment, I have to be satisfied by that and a financial contribution by way of taxation. As I've said, I would like to see it properly spent.
