We love questions. I believe, especially when it comes to health challenges, questions have saved many people’s lives. I was watching Stand Up 2 Cancer last night and love how they profile the medical teams working on cures. The number of discoveries researchers are making is astounding and not only adding years to life, but life to years.
The other reason questions are important is because they allow us, the patient, to make sure the provider is clear, not only in their explanation, but of their diagnosis and prognosis. One of my favorite books is How Doctors Think by Jerome Groopman. Groopman tells us, it’s important to ask the following question(s) when in the discovery phase. “I know you told me it’s my (name the organ), but what organs are close by, perhaps yielding similar symptoms.” His rationale is clear. When we ask questions, it requires the provider to at least stop for a moment, ponder the question, and in the end come back with their response. Medicine is often based on algorithms. We just want to make sure we correct for bias or simple follow the flowchart answers.
We should never be afraid to ask questions. I know providers aren’t always thrilled, but it’s not their life. If they make a bad decision it’s not their quality of life or length of life altered. It’s not about challenging the provider, it’s about clarity and certainty. I don’t know about you, but the last thing I want is an unsure provider.
For more art and prompts, (I’ve posted over 1,000 collages) follow me on
Instagram/Threads : @drfiber
For commentary on the art, read: www.manofthecloth.wordpress.com
Pilgrim Pathway 
Leave a comment