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First of all listening to your inner knowing when researching a doctor or listening to proporsed treatment plans is a good way to start..
Whether we are holistically inclined or not, whether we have a knowledge and acceptance of alternative modalities or not, we always want to have a good MD on hand for a situation that might arise.
But what should we look for in a doctor? what makes an MD exceptional? It is a variety of qualities claerly not taught in medical school.
– Open Mindedness which is translated to lack of ego-if your doctor is not open or curious about the effectiveness of alternative modalities, he is not the doctor for you. The second you hear a doctor say, do it my way and you will be cured, run for the hills. I have found that ego is one of the major culprits in medical mistreatment. Especially if a doctor has a specialty or is researching in a certain area he may tend to ignore the bigger picture.
– Curiosity – Your doctor should be open and constantly learning and seeking. Yes, they are busy, and yes, they are educated but as in any field there are always new discoveries and options..yes options..many times they are not in the mainstream yet but are proving to be effective and many times they are unfortunately not covered by insurance BUT this is your life we are talking about. Bottom line your doctor should have a curiosity about all the new discoveries and modalities.
– Empathy and Sincerity – Your MD should see you as a unique individual as we are all different and why would we want to be diagnosed any other way- we are an intricate symphony of mind-body-soul that needs to be honored.
– Ego and Tolerance – Your doctor should be patient with your questions and not make you feel less then in anyway. This is a working relationship which can only work when both people are communicating as equals and with respect. Your doctor should be open to all your quesitons: and encouraging if you want a second opinion not threatened or making you feel ashamed. If your MD sets himself on a pedestal, run.
– Quick to draw out the Rx Pad – Your MD should look for root causes of your issues so while a medication might be needed he sets you on the road to true wellness by suggesting modalities that are more user friendly to you body and can also empower you.
Additionally if your MD writes a script because you ask and it is easier..well you are hurting yourself. Integrity, humility, conscientiousness, discernment and openness are qualities in your doctor that will end up serving you. Remember he is human and as we know many doctors have made many mistakes..own your health, check out your options and empower yourself. Here is to YOUR health..
