Doctors need to become informed physician investors

D.J. is a 55 year-old woman with recently diagnosed early-stage left-sided breast cancer. She just had a lumpectomy to remove the tumor, and now has to decide whether to undergo chemotherapy after surgery. Her oncologist carefully discusses the clinical and pathologic data about her tumor, in terms D.J. can understand. She discusses the risks, benefits, and side effects of chemotherapy, and recommends treatment. D.J., having learned about the risks and benefits of chemotherapy online, in pamphlets, and from other breast cancer patients, asks her oncologist additional questions about the chemotherapy. After an extensive discussion, D.J. agrees with her oncologist and elects to proceed with treatment. This is an example of an ideal patient-physician interaction in oncology. The oncologist thoroughly discusses all aspects of treatment, the patient is informed and fully understands the risks and benefits of the treatment, and a shared decision is made between a patient and her physician. Does a similar interaction occur when a physician and his or her financial advisor discuss investments? Does the financial advisor lay out the potential returns, costs, and fees of potential investments? Are appropriate alternative investments discussed? Is the financial advisor acting in the best interests of the client, or is he or she looking to maximize commissions? Continue reading ... Your patients are rating you online: How to respond. Manage your online reputation: A social media guide. ...
Source: Kevin, M.D. - Medical Weblog - Category: Journals (General) Authors: Tags: Physician Primary care Source Type: blogs