by Marianna Lamare

Created on: August 31, 2008

The question about whether or not to trust doctors is really about whether or not to trust ourselves. We are not taught to listen to our inner voice, our 'gut' feelings in this society. The best doctor-patient relationship is one where the doctor listens to the insights and feelings of the paitent. If trusting a doctor is an issue for you, then listen to that question of trust and perhaps that is a clear indication you need to find another doctor. The best patient-doctor relationship is one built on mutal respect, listening to each other, allowing for questions and even second-opinions. I trust a doctor who says "I don't know the answer to that, but I will find it; or, I have someone who does know the best course of action to take and I'll refer you."

Our western medicine model takes the power away from patients, sets us up to so that we expect doctors to 'fix' us or the problem. It is truly a partnership; and so, my answer to this debate is yes, ONLY if you trust yourself enough to be your own best advocate. The system of medicine in this country is big business, for profit. You have to be able to ask good questions, and more importantly, not be afraid to ask good questions. I trust my own intution, first, on a health matter and really appreciate the expertise and experience of a doctor who also trusts me. My favorite doctor was someone who treated me like an equal and helped me realize my health was my responsibility. We need doctors, and sometimes, like in an emergency room, we have no time to debate the trust issue. That is why my family has my explicit wishes in a situation where I cannot speak for myself and they, too, will advocate for me as need be. No matter what, to some degree, we have to trust a doctor who is responding to our life-threatening emergency or a routine visit but, it is our life. We have to decide, with the best information we can find, so good research on the part of the patient is very important. I trust myself to make the right decision and that often means I choose to fully trust a doctor, or not. Each situation, each health issue deserves its own consideration of trust.
We need doctors but I think we often do put them on pedestals. I often do my research before I go into the doctor's office and then ask about tests being recommended. I left a doctor's office once in tears because he was so rude when he found out I had gone for a second opinion. Needless to say, I never went back to him. It wasn't that I didn't trust him, initially, but that I just wondered about other options for myself. It was a painful experience but it also taught me the importance of being empowered and putting my health first, trusting myself first.

Learn more about this author, Marianna Lamare.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.