John, I have also fired several doctors, and additionally checked myself out of the hospital on a half-dozen occasions. I have also refused to accept many medications, knowing full well the side effects could have been fatal in my case.

I sincerely believe the only reason I am still alive is because of my medical background. The average person believes the doctor they just met for the first time is some sort of godlike creature that can do no wrong. Nothing could be farther from the truth! Patients, unfortunately, rarely take the time to educate themselves on the diseases they have contracted, treatment options and they tend to never question the physician's judgment, which is nothing more than a wild assed guess based on what they have learned in medical school, during their internship and residency. Some, at least a small percentage, seem to absorb those experiences and apply them in a caring, thoughtful manner, while others never seem to grasp the information and utilize it with a fair degree of common sense.

One thing for certain, Socialized Medicine would make things a lot worse, IMO. A classic example of this can be seen with the VA, which I must visit a couple times a year. That is definitely a one size fits all outfit, where people have died just waiting for an appointment to see a doctor that doesn't have a clue what he or she is doing. I have seen so many first hand horror stories there it would make the average person throw up.

Please, I implore all forum members, take control of your own health problems. Educate yourself about the diseases you have contracted and explore all treatment options. You have a wonderful tool at your fingertips to do this - the Internet, which has a myriad of accredited medical sites that can provide you with a wealth of information - information that can save your life and the lives of your loved ones.

Good luck,

Gary