Informed patients make best advocates for PCOS research

[helvella]

Quite a number of people here have mentioned PCOS. But it isn't the PCOS that seems important here, it is attitude. Really sounds rather a healthy approach which contrasts strongly with the sick approach to thyroid we so often hear about and experience.

Informed patients make best advocates for PCOS research

Endocrine Today, February 2015

Andrea Dunaif, MD

Clinicians know that communicating often-complex medical concepts to patients is the cornerstone of effective care. Most biomedical investigators have failed to establish similarly effective communications with patients, who are our most important constituency because it is they who stand to benefit from our efforts. Further, informed and energized patients are clearly the best advocates for biomedical research, particularly now when funding is in tremendous jeopardy.

Physician-scientists are uniquely positioned to engage patients in the importance of scientific discovery. As a clinical investigator whose entire career has focused on elucidating the etiology of polycystic ovary syndrome, I have found that partnering with affected women has been essential for the success of my research efforts. Moreover, it is truly gratifying to experience the altruism that motivates patients to volunteer for studies. They recognize that, although they likely will not directly benefit from our investigations, participating in studies is the only way to improve the care of others.

Patients understand science, treatment

Most patients are completely capable of comprehending sophisticated scientific topics when explained in lay terms. With the widespread availability of medical information on the Internet, many women with PCOS accurately self-diagnose the condition when it has been missed by multiple physicians. They often have a good grasp of available treatment options. It is usually easier to discuss diagnostic and therapeutic options with the informed patient than with colleagues in primary care.

healio.com/endocrinology/pr...

Read more at the link above.

Rod

[shaws Administrator]

Thanks Rod for the link and info. I particulary liked the following phrase (where can we find Endocrinologists with the same attitude) :

Physician-scientists are uniquely positioned to engage patients in the importance of scientific discovery. As a clinical investigator whose entire career has focused on elucidating the etiology of polycystic ovary syndrome, I have found that partnering with affected women has been essential for the success of my research efforts. Moreover, it is truly gratifying to experience the altruism that motivates patients to volunteer for studies. They recognize that, although they likely will not directly benefit from our investigations, participating in studies is the only way to improve the care of others.

Patients understand science, treatment