Truth and Health

Do we live in such a judgmental society that patients are lying to their doctors about their behaviors outside the exam room? Many believe that patients may not lie, but withhold information about "bad" or "noncompliant" behaviors because the doctor will have a negative opinion of the patient.

Those who are non-compliant and then are blaming the doctor for less than exemplary results need to ask themselves some tough questions like "do I have the right to blame a doctor for a treatment failure if I didn't do my part in the healing equation?" I understand the fear of doctors, they literally have your life in their hands. However, it's up to us as patients to give the medical provider every opportunity to succeed and help you regain your health by being truthful.

Yes every person will most likely miss a dose of their medication, that's human nature. It's when the regimen becomes too bastardized that you begin to have problems. Many of us have "bad" habits that don't promote health, but letting the doctor know will enable them to help you minimize the risks from those behaviors or provide you with the information and resources you need to improve those habits.

It's important that we as patients do our part in the treatment process. Transparency between doctor and patient will yield greater results, less complications and improved quality of life. This isn't a lesson in truth, but looking at finding a physician you feel isn't biased or judgmental. Find ways to work together and then open the lines of communication.