Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)This excellent book only underscores what we're all learning the hard way--the days of putting complete trust in your doctor are over. Levine has written a pretty scary book. He starts with what happens in the hospital--the standard procedures to make life easier for an overworked, undertrained staff that can result in deadly infections, the dangers of the emergency room, the perilous journey from your room to your x-ray or a lab. Levine then transitions to your doctor's office, and details the many ways you can be talked into unnecessary tests, medications or procedures. Needless to say the pharmaceutical industry takes a beating, as Levine describes how doctors are pressured into prescribing new drugs when older, cheaper generics are just as good if not better.
The bottom line is that each of us is responsible for our own care, and luckily with the internet we have the tools we need to make informed decisions. If I can sum up Levine's advice in one word, it's question, question, question!
My only problem with this book really lies with the publisher--it badly needs a good index! The book is chockful of good information especially in the area of cardiology, Levine's specialty, but going back and finding it would be a chore. Maybe in the paperback....
Click Here to see more reviews about: What Your Doctor Won't or Can't Tell You: Doctors, Hospitals, Drugs, Insurance--What You Need to Know to Take Charge of Your Own Health Care
An internist and cardiologist tells you what others may be afraid to-and what can save your life: where to look, what to ask, and what to avoid when you need quality health care for yourself and your family.Dr. Evan Levine, a New York cardiologist, believes he has a responsibility. The practice of medicine in America today has deteriorated and everyone must look harder to find good health care. Dr. Levine wants to give people the facts that can really help them-the truth about the scams doctors, hospitals, and drug and insurance companies are running, all in an effort to put profits ahead of healing patients; and the vital tips we need to find the appropriate general physician, specialist, and hospital in our area.How do you choose a good doctor? Check for his or her board certification, medical schools, and rankings; and never accept a doctor assigned automatically by a hospital. How do you find the right hospital-where things will be done professionally and correctly? Go to a university hospital, especially during an emergency; make sure an ER doctor calls your primary physician; and always question a test being administered. Levine's book is chock-full of essential information on second opinions, clinical studies, and the tricks of the trade that doctors, hospitals, and drug and insurance companies use to maximize their profits-at the expense of your health-and your wallet.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
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