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Prof. Paweł Łuków - Examples of doctor-patient relationships

10 December 2022

I am pleased to provide you with an example of a patient and a patient-doctor relationship that illustrates the key points I have made in my earlier comments.

The patient is Mrs Maria, who presents to her GP because of severe abdominal pain. The doctor takes a history and performs an examination to determine the cause of the complaints. After a thorough examination of the patient, the doctor concludes that it is colitis and prescribes the appropriate treatment.

Mrs Maria is satisfied with the doctor's attitude, who dealt with her problem in a professional and caring manner. Thanks to the fact that the doctor listened carefully to her complaints and carried out appropriate examinations, he was able to determine the cause of her complaints and recommend appropriate treatment. Mrs Maria feels full confidence in her doctor and is grateful to him for his help.

When a patient refuses to undergo a treatment recommended by a doctor, it is important to think carefully about the reasons for this. It may be that the patient does not thoroughly understand the proposed treatment and refuses for fear of the unknown. Another reason may be that the patient has a moral objection, believing that it would be inappropriate to undergo the treatment. Whatever the reason, it is important for the doctor to be empathetic and explain any concerns to the patient so that the patient can make an informed decision about their health.

"Distinguishing between what we want most and what we think is appropriate is extremely important in situations where patients insist on or refuse treatment. Doctors need to take into account both the patient's needs and their own professional opinions in order to provide the best possible care.

For example, if a patient does not want to undergo treatment, but consents to it, is this sufficient authorisation for the doctor to carry it out? In such situations, it is important for the doctor to talk to the patient and explain the consequences of his or her decision, and to take into account the patient's life plans and other factors.

On the other hand, patients often insist on treatment that the doctor believes is not in their best interests. In such cases, the doctor should also talk to the patient and explain to them why a particular treatment is not appropriate.

In summary, in situations where patients insist on or refuse treatment, it is important that the doctor takes into account both the patient's needs and their own professional opinions to provide the best possible care."

Sometimes patients may feel fearful of what the doctor will suggest to them, or they may read something on the internet and have doubts about the treatment recommended by the doctor. In such situations, it is worth remembering that the doctor should act on the basis of current medical knowledge and use only proven, effective and safe treatments. He or she should not comply with the patient's wishes if carrying them out could harm his or her health. The doctor should give expert advice and use the most effective diagnostic and treatment methods if the patient agrees.

There is no obligation to treat yourself, except in certain situations. However, we should remember that health is our most precious asset and it is worth taking care of it. In some cases, a lack of treatment can lead to serious health complications, so consider visiting a specialist and receiving appropriate treatment. Let us also remember about regular preventive examinations, which can detect possible diseases at an early stage. Let's take care of our health in order to enjoy well-being and fitness.