Once upon a time it was unheard of for a doctor’s opinion to be challenged, but today’s patients are getting second and third opinions, seeking out alternative health care solutions and pursuing natural options to find out the best course of action for their health.
And recently, the medical system is now being challenged by the medical community itself exposing the flaws of medicine and misdiagnosis that runs rampant in the healthcare industry. Unfortunately, these are the things we hear about and sometimes experience ourselves as our confidence in conventional medical treatment diminishes and new healthcare options become available.
According to several doctors including Dr. Otis Brawley, Chief Medical Officer for the American Cancer Society, Americans are suffering and dying avoidable deaths because the current healthcare system is not working. It is projected that America spends one and half times as much per person on healthcare than any other country. However, it ranks 50th in life expectancy and 47th in infant mortality. Dr. Brawley blames unnecessary treatments on a lack of medical knowledge and the financial attractiveness being supported by big pharma, medical manufacturers, and hospitals. He also stresses the unfortunate attention given to treatment of illnesses rather than promoting health and preventing disease. Why? Because disease is big business and job security for many healthcare professionals.
You, as a healthcare consumer, have every reason to be angry that the costs simply are unsustainable. Studies show, that a majority of cancers are preventable through lifestyle and not medical treatment.
Dr. Brawley is not the only medical doctor to challenge the healthcare system. In fact, this is now widely known in the medical industry and has struck chords with the healthcare overseers. Dr. Brawley recognizes that the medical community needs to take a hard look at itself in the mirror and give healthcare consumers better treatment options as a priority and not because it makes more dollars.
So what can we take from this? We encourage you to take responsibility for your own health. Do your own research and also always challenge your healthcare providers. Getting educated about what you can do to maximize your potential for better health and a longer life should always be your number one concern for yourself and your family. Make wise, informed decisions by getting your information from multiple sources. You shouldn’t just take what the doctor orders because if you do, you could potentially increase your chance for health risks.
While steering away from the bandwagon is never easy, relying on a single source for anything in your life can set you up for disappointment. Take back your health into your hands and you too can live a healthier you!
http://www.cnn.com/2012/01/30/health/how-we-do-harm-brawley/index.html