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Writer's pictureDr Bahrou

Why I want my patients to tell me what they learned on Dr. Google

Updated: May 26, 2019

It has happened more times than I can count.


During the course of a discussion with a patient, they will, at some point, display a slightly embarrassed smile and say something to the effect of, "I know you probably hate hearing this..." OR "I'm sure everyone tells you this...". And then they tell me about a scary diagnosis that popped up when they googled their symptoms.


I tell them the same thing every time. "Don't apologize!" and "Please, tell me about what you read."

I do this because I want my patients to take ownership of their health. My relationship with my patients is a partnership. Indeed, many patients may choose to see me as a consultant on their health and wellness journey; and they are the CEO, the ultimate decision maker. In which case, of course they would use all available resources to understand new or long term symptoms they may be having.

When I know what the internet has told my patient, we can have a more thorough discussion. Sometimes, I share their concerns and then we make a plan to investigate. That plan may include an exam, a lifestyle intervention, lab tests, imaging tests, and/or a specialist consultation. Sometimes, my potential diagnoses are different than what they've been reading about, and we are able to discuss my reasoning and evidence supporting my thoughts on their symptoms.


If my patient is afraid to tell me what they read for fear of my judgement, then I may not address all their concerns. This might mean that someone walks out of my office feeling nervous and uncertain, which is not a successful visit.

My goal is to walk together through the great vastness of sometimes excellent, sometimes dubious information sources, to keep my patients safe, and of course, to help them live their healthiest life.

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