DECISION TIME:
Choose one of the following:
Power Dynamics in consulting
What happens if the patient knows more?
The GP spends a significant amount of time exploring the patients health understanding here in context of her latest results. What he discovers is that this isn't going to be a straightforward discussion about prescribing statins or not.
Cultural influences are common in consultations, whether religious beliefs or health beliefs.
Here we are presented with the patients agenda of her preferences for Chinese Medicinal therapy to address her cholesterol concerns.
You may have advanced knowledge of varying cultures and influences on health presenting behaviours- you have permission not to!! Patients will often be the experts that stimulate our further learning in such situations. Managing this dynamic is an important tool for our skillset.
Time to choose how to handle this case in response to the presented uncertainty.
Should we admit our lack of knowledge? Do patients need that from their Doctor? Think about your professional reputation.
Are we being too passive for the patient perspective? They're coming to us for our medical expertise and knowledge regarding latest clinical evidence after all.
