I recently wrote about Jesse Gruman's book, "Aftershock -- What To Do When The Doctor Gives You -- Or Someone You Love -- A Devastating Diagnosis" as covered by Jane Brody of the NY Times. Brody continues her coverage this week, with more tips from Gruman. First up, know your doctor. Gruman advises finding a specialist who is up-to-date on your disease and has lots of experience. She also recommends checking with the state medical board regarding any disciplines or malpractice suits against the physician and assessing any local information obtained from other patients and friends. Dr. Gruman also advises not to be surprised if the doctor cannot answer questions like, "Am I going to beat this disease?" or "How long can I go on like this?" Gruman notes that it is "difficult, if not irresponsible" for a doctor to guarantee certain outcomes.
Gruman also advises getting a second opinion and not worrying about insulting your current physician for doing so. Gruman suggests framing such a request as a desire, "to feel completely comfortable with the treatment you suggest" or even blaming someone else, such as your family for insisting on a second opinion.
Patients seek second opinions for many reasons, including the desire for more information, difficulty communicating with their current physician, dissatisfaction with how treatment is progressing or being told nothing more can be done. Dr. Gruman writes, "While it is true that many diseases cannot be cured, it is never true that there is nothing more to be done."
