We read up on a diagnosis, treatment, or what our symptoms could possibly mean.
Around half of U.S. adults do this, according to theCDCs 2022 National Health Interview Survey.
But then, we want our own doctor to weigh in on our findings, which can feel daunting.
What if the doctor is dismissive?
This worry is a valid one.
What do doctors think when I bring them my research?
professor of health communication at Boston College who specializes in human communication in healthcare
I have a phrase I say to my patients a lot, which is knowledge is power.
I really do believe that.
Bringing your research to your doctor for the purpose of collaboration is the ideal scenario, experts say.
For every reliable information source, there are several spreading health misinformation.
According to Dr. Lauridsen, doctors areoften warythat online material contains health misinformation that hasnt been rigorously fact-checked.
If they do this for sound scientific literature, how much more for potentially unvetted online information?
Having to unpack all of this in a single consult can be tricky.
This is especially true when a patient is adamant that what theyve found is absolutely valid and irrefutable.
Be warned: Doctors may also feelfrustrated and distrustedwhen patients use the Internet to self-treat or self-diagnose.
professor of health communication at Boston College who specializes in human communication in healthcare
How to talk to your doctorabout the info youve found
Approach and intention matters.
Are we bringing the info while also hoping to learn what the doctor advises?
The first approach is more likely to help you foster a collaborative partnership with your provider.
Mention your research in the form of a question that invites your doctors perspective, experts advise.
Could we talk about whether it might be right for me?
What is The Missionary Sex Position?
State your point in a way that invites your doctors partnership.
After all, this informs the decisions they make regarding the patients care.
Describe which part of the information feels important to you, says Dr. Duggan.
So, why not ask your doctor which websites they recommend?
Calmly exit the consultation and get a second opinion.
you’re free to also ask your doctor to refer you to a specialist.
Its not an insulting thing to do.
In saying that, some doctors may not be open to doing this in their consultations.
But there are certainly other providers who will.
…
Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.
