Dooley Noted: 6/21/2014
I don’t have a single week in clinical practice that a patient doesn’t mention something he heard on Dr. Oz’s television show.
I don’t watch much TV. But I’m not one of those people that claim TV is a waste of time. I’m simply not home much.
I think you can learn a ton from television. And sometimes, you can learn what advice NOT to give your patients.
I have seen Dr. Oz’s show. His charisma and intelligence make him a fascinating television personality. And yesterday, he had a tough day in front of Congress, defending his suggestions.
People argue that his suggestions aren’t scientific. From raspberry ketones to vinegar for fat loss, he has taken opportunities to promote products instead of promoting science.
This photo is outside my neighborhood pharmacy:
It makes me shiver every time I walk past it. Millions believe every word Dr. Oz states and follow him like disciples.
And that viewer mentality is the problem I have with Dr. Oz.
My parents jokingly call me Dr. Jo, stating I will one day have my own television show of advice to the public.
Here’s why I won’t.
Dr. Jo would never sell out.
I’m not going to promote products because the producers shove things in my face. I have a responsibility to the world to back up what I state and note that even my opinion is only worth a grain of salt. People must decide things for themselves instead of being told what to do.
That might not sell.
So, I’m happy helping people in smaller chunks. I want people to investigate advice offered to them. I’ve made a tiny impact in this world, with blogs, seminars, and patient visits, helping people to learn how to learn.
It’s not millions of people following me blindly. It’s a career built on honesty, contemplation, and yes – trial and error.
Dr. Oz might consider this. His show might get canceled. But “doctor” means teacher, and that must be each doctor’s priority. Students can follow a teacher blindly or learn how to think and question for themselves, with a teacher as a mere catalyst.
As always, it’s their call.
– Dr. Kathy Dooley