EMBARGOED UNTIL OCTOBER 23, 2002
Patients who want information about a medical procedure they are considering are twice as likely to seek that information from the Internet as they are from their doctors, according to results of a new survey released today by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). But the survey results also showed that the doctor's recommendation ultimately carries the most weight in the patient's decision about the procedure.
The AAD conducted the patient survey to learn where Americans are getting their health care information and how they are making treatment choices.
"With the rapid increase in new treatments and the advances in medical and surgical techniques in dermatology, it is now more important than ever that patients do their homework and make wise decisions when it comes to their health care," said dermatologist Naomi Lawrence, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine and Director of Dermatologic Surgery with Cooper Health Systems, an affiliate of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, speaking today at the AAD's Derm Update 2002. "There is a lot of publicity about things such as Botox(r) parties and lunchtime peels that may make these procedures appear risk free. However patients can suffer from serious complications if the procedures are performed by an unqualified or non-physician."
The telephone survey of 800 adult men and women found that 62 percent of respondents characterized their decisions about their health care in general as "very well informed," and 76 percent said they do their own research when considering having a specific medical procedure.
The Internet is the source preferred by the greatest percentage of respondents (67 percent), with fewer than half as many (33 percent) saying they consult their doctor for details of a specific procedure. However, 70 percent said it's the advice of their doctor that ultimately determines their decision.
"Clearly people are taking a more active and independent role in their health care decisions, which is becoming easier with all the user-friendly information available on the Internet," said Dr. Lawrence. "They're really taking the best approach they can by gathering information and then confirming it with their doctors."
Other sources patients consult when considering a procedure include:-- family, friends, patients who have previously undergone the procedure (39 percent);-- medical journals and books (32 percent);-- registered nurses or other health care professionals (16 percent);-- public libraries, encyclopedias (16 percent);-- magazines, newspapers, television (13 percent).
The survey also found the majority (54 percent) of Americans are asking their doctors about their experience with medical procedures. However, only a little more than one-third (39 percent) ask their physician about their credentials.
"Asking your doctor the right questions is an essential part of an informed health care decision," said Dr. Lawrence. "We encourage all patients to ask their physicians about their experience and credentials."
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that patients ask their physician the following questions before undergoing a dermatological or other medical procedure:
* What are the doctor's credentials? Is he/she a board-certified dermatologist or other appropriately trained physician? Ask to see the physician's credentials. For example, dermatologists are medical doctors and surgeons who received extensive education and training for dermatologic conditions that involves at least four to six years of postgraduate residency training in a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. Dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons also engage in continuing medical education (CME) throughout their careers (in fact, almost every state requires a minimum number of CME hours per year for relicensure).
* How many of these procedures has the physician performed?The procedure should be one that the doctor performs regularly. For example, dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons perform thousands of medical and surgical procedures each year. In fact, dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons developed many of the procedures and advances in treatment for dermatologic conditions from skin cancer to aging skin.
* What results can be expected? How long is the recuperation period? With any medical and surgical procedure, the outcome depends on not only the skill and experience of the physician, but also on a patient's age, general health and the specific problem. By discussing the specific factors, you can have realistic expectations about the recovery and results, which can contribute to a positive outcome. For cosmetic procedures, seeing before-and-after photographs of previous patients also may be helpful. For some medical procedures, you may be able to talk to other patients who can share their experience.
* What are the risks?The risks associated with most dermatologic procedures are minimal, however any medical or surgical procedure carries some inherent risks. You should know what they are and how likely they are to occur.
* Where is the procedure being performed? Because most dermatologic procedures do not require general anesthesia, they are most often effectively and efficiently performed in the dermatologist's office, suite or outpatient center. This offers a safe, cost-saving alternative to the hospital.
* What will the procedure cost?It's important to ask how much the procedure will cost and how payment should be made. This is especially important for cosmetic procedures which are generally not covered by insurance plans.The study results were determined by a random sample telephone survey of 800 households within the continental U.S. conducted in July 2002.
The American Academy of Dermatology, founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of over 14,000 dermatologists worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical, and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin. For more information, contact the AAD at 1-888-462-DERM or www.aad.org.
The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) was founded in 1970 to promote excellence in the field of dermatologic surgery and to foster the highest standards of patient care. For more information or referrals to dermatalogic surgeons in specific geographic areas, please contact the ASDS Consumer Hotline, 1-800-441-ASDS (2737), during weekday business hours or log on at http://www.aboutskinsurgery.com.
RSS