PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The more people know about their own medical conditions, the better their chances of staying healthy. It's logical, but the idea is not as simple as it sounds.
The best physicians partner with their patients, have free-flowing conversations, and either educate their patients one on one or suggest resources to self-educate.
Years ago, the doctor was considered the expert, and patients often did what they said without question. Fortunately, we have moved well past this.
Today, patients have virtually unlimited resources to learn, but there are problems, too. Cultural disparities, reduced face-time of doctors with patients, and numerous voices on social media — where everyone can be an expert — have reduced and in some cases eliminated the patient-doctor conversation and partnership.
Whether it is high blood pressure, cancer prevention or COVID-19, there is a need to partner with a credentialed expert for information.
KYW Newsradio's Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.
