Ten minutes to write. Less time to read.

I went to the local hospital yesterday afternoon to have a phlebotomist take a blood sample. My annual physical is next week, and my doctor wanted empirical data based on blood samples about my well being. I can’t say I disagree with him entirely.

Modern medical techniques enable physicians to diagnose and treat small problems before they become life threatening or lifestyle threatening. This is a good thing.

However, I remember a time when the patient’s feelings held as much sway as a blood test. When the doctor listened to my heart and me and then ordered tests, if they were necessary. Today, we do the testing first.

My doctor will have the feedback by my appointment. Then he will suggest various courses of action based on that feedback. In exchange, I will offer how I feel or what I think. I’ll ask how my family’s medical history of colon cancer might influence his recommendations. In between the touches of the cold stethoscope, we’ll talk for a few minutes and come to some mutual conclusion.

When I moved to Michigan, I looked around for a doctor who viewed his practice as collaborative rather than authoritative. Dr. S. still wants those diagnostic tests, but he agrees that I’ve lived in my body longer than anyone else has and listens what I have to say about my residence there. I appreciate him for that.