by Allen Alberson

Created on: June 27, 2009

When you ask if doctors can be trusted it seems like a very simple question. In fact it is too simple. It is no different than asking if a plumber can be trusted or a mechanic. Doctors are just people like the rest of us and subject to the same fallacies. The only problem is that we are putting our lives into their hands and that is much more important than our cars or commodes. Maybe a better question is should you blindly trust any doctor and that answer is no.

Doctors may be better educated and trained than many people but like mentioned they are human. What is that old line? To err is human. To err is to blindly trust anyone with your life and well being. I am not going to use this article to try to label doctors as uncaring or "quacks" but just to say use caution when placing trust. I believe most doctors are dedicated and caring professional. There will be exceptions just like in any profession. There will be those whoa re in it just for the salary and are willing to take ethical short cuts to increase their billing or make their life more comfortable.

When choosing a doctor ask around. Find out what others say about him or her. Don't go in with prejudice or preconceptions. Pay attention to his office and the workers there. They are there to take care of you and should treat you with respect. How does the doctor treat you when you meet? Is he friendly or grouchy? Its true that being grouchy doesn't mean he is incompetent but it seems to me that when you place your well being in someone's hands they should at least be courteous to you.

Don't be afraid to ask questions. You have a right to make a well informed decision. You also have a right to refuse treatment if you think it is excessive or isn't needed. Get a second opinion. A good doctor should not object. If he does object, get a second opinion anyway. It is your body and your life. He works for you and you do not owe him loyalty if it places you at risk. A good doctor who is sure of himself should welcome a second opinion.

Stay informed. The age of the Internet makes it easy for all of us to do research on our own. Check out your diagnosis online and if you find anything interesting, let your provider know. He might roll his eyes and sigh heavily, but he has an obligation to discuss your treatment with you.

As long as you are able to make decisions you have a right to decide about your medical treatment. That means that even in the Emergency Room as long as you are competent to make decisions you have choices. You have a right to have your personal physician notified as soon as possible. You also have the right to demand to be transferred to another facility, but remember you could be putting your life in danger if you do. Still feel free to ask your ER physician questions and if you feel mistreated or that you are not being treated properly, let him know.

Can you trust doctors, just because they are a doctor? No. Can you trust YOUR doctor. You can if you do your homework. Don't be afraid to ask questions, it's your right.

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