Five states have recently passed legislation requiring 'clinics' to inform women with dense breast tissue on mammography that the mammograms may miss tumors and that such dense tissue may increase the risk of beast cancer. This has caused a conflict between patients who believe in 'the right to know' and physicians who maintain that the significance of breast density is uncertain, and providing such information can only lead to potential needless panic and further unnecessary screening and breast biopsy.
There is no question that it is the duty of a physician to provide the patient, or her representative, with all the information at hand about a problem such as this. The physician, or other medical provider, should offer all available information and present it in a manner that is easily understood. Information should include a discussion of the risks, and risks should be presented with clarity, using actual percentages. At the end of the visit, it should be very evident that the patient, or her representative understands the situation.
Now, should a government mandate that such information be provided? Dr. Otis Brawley, the chief medical officer and executive vice president of the American Cancer Society opined the following: "I object to legislation that says doctors should have a conversation with their patients that I believe they should have with their patients." Read this carefully - it is well said - and so true.
It is a disservice when physicians, or other providers, do not furnish their patients, or patient-advocates with the proper information to help them make informed decisions about their health. But government mandated conversations are out of line. Patients who feel they have been inappropriately treated or informed can always resort to existing legal redress.
The important 'take-home' message for a patient is to be certain (and not afraid) to ask the right questions and request detailed answers and information. It is always a good idea to have someone accompany you - four ears are better than two.
There is no question that it is the duty of a physician to provide the patient, or her representative, with all the information at hand about a problem such as this. The physician, or other medical provider, should offer all available information and present it in a manner that is easily understood. Information should include a discussion of the risks, and risks should be presented with clarity, using actual percentages. At the end of the visit, it should be very evident that the patient, or her representative understands the situation.
Now, should a government mandate that such information be provided? Dr. Otis Brawley, the chief medical officer and executive vice president of the American Cancer Society opined the following: "I object to legislation that says doctors should have a conversation with their patients that I believe they should have with their patients." Read this carefully - it is well said - and so true.
It is a disservice when physicians, or other providers, do not furnish their patients, or patient-advocates with the proper information to help them make informed decisions about their health. But government mandated conversations are out of line. Patients who feel they have been inappropriately treated or informed can always resort to existing legal redress.
The important 'take-home' message for a patient is to be certain (and not afraid) to ask the right questions and request detailed answers and information. It is always a good idea to have someone accompany you - four ears are better than two.
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