Who's in Charge?: "Whatever the source of a patient's information, a physician is most effective when he or she isn't defensive, but acts as an interpreter of information and guide of treatment, leaving the ultimate control to the patient.
For the ideal combination, mix an informed patient with an inquiring physician. Arthur Caplan, chairman of the medical ethics department at the University of Pennsylvania, likes to cite a quote attributed to the ancient Greek physician Galen: "The best physician is something of a philosopher." Such a physician does more than "pose questions," says Caplan. He "isn't afraid to have them asked. The process of questioning can lead to understanding and patient satisfaction."
And doctor satisfaction as well. It's much more fun ( and intellectually stimulating) to treat a well-informed patient who does his homework and asks questions ! Smart patients can teach their doctor a lot !
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