A Proper View of The Medical Doctor
When it comes to cancer treatment there are two opposite extreme polarizing views on the role of the medical doctor. Some view the medical doctors as the only expert and therefore the final authority on how cancer should be treated. To them, the medical doctor knows all. His/her word is unquestionable.
The otherextreme view is more cynical. To them, medical doctors have a hidden agenda and they pushineffective harmful treatments becausethey are beholden to medical associations and pharmaceutical companies. Therefore, they see the doctor as untrustworthy.These people would rather put their faith and trust in alternative practitioners and alternative medicine alone.
I believe in a balanced approach to the traditional medical doctors. I do not believe that their knowledge is exhaustive, but they do know more than I do. They are trained professionals in their specialty. Contrary to the skeptical view, most doctors are personally invested in helping their patients get the best possible care and outcomes. They have noble intentions and have spent years honing and perfecting their craft. However, oncology doctors are typicallydependent on the conventionally accepted cancer protocols that includechemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and prescription drugs. Their treatmentsare limited within the scope of their specific specialized training and what they learned in medical school. Many have zero training in nutrition and alternative approaches to disease.Therefore, I also consult with an alternative practitioner, who tailors her treatment to compliment the conventional treatment of my oncologist.
I believe the medical doctorshould come alongside the patient and consult. Doctors should give their expert advice and guide us in choosing a treatment plan; not demand we do as they say.My oncologist is only one part of my treatment team and not exclusive. I am open to her suggestions and I highly consider them. She also refers me to other specialist if I have a specific need for treatment outside of her prevue
What should you look for in choosing a traditional medical doctor?
- Bedside Manners – you must feel comfortableand believethat you could develop a positive rapport. You are going to be interacting with this doctor for a long period of time, maybe years. So, feeling at ease and being able to talk to your doctor about anything is very important. He should make you feel like you are the only patient he has, not just another number.
- How many years of experience does he have?
- What are the reviews of his current and former patients
- He should freely and thoroughly answer any questions you have with patience and sensitivity.
- He should have compatible values and philosophies
- How does his staff treat you and do they have a pleasant disposition?
Choosing a doctor is one of the most critical decisions you will make. Do not make this decision lightly. It could drastically affect your treatment outcomes.
Don’t distrust medical doctors. They do have a lot to offer in your treatment care. My oncologist is more than just a Doctor. Over the 18 years she has become a trusted friend. Her and her nurse have comforted and encouraged me in my darkest hour when I thought I was going to die. She is like a mother who tends to her hurting child and wants to make everything better. That attitude goes a long way in treating a cancer patient.
