Re:TV doctors say annual checkups save lives. Real doctors c...
by andreareina on Sunday May 28, 2023 @12:43AM
(#36101195)
Your test is consistent with condition A. Its prevalence in the general population is B/1000 people. We can do a follow-up test that involves B, C, D, will cost $E and in cases like yours confirm condition A in F% of cases. Or we can wait and see; we'll redo the test in G time out if you present with other signs and symptoms H, I, J. Other possible causes for the test result are K, L, M. How could you like to proceed?
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Re:TV doctors say annual checkups save lives. Real doctors c...
by mattkrause on Sunday May 28, 2023 @08:43AM
(#36103513)
I have a PhD in this stuff and I'm not sure I'd want to be making those sorts of decisions, especially for myself or a loved one.
In your example, suppose I do have A (or K, L, or M). If I wait, how will that affect the costs and prognosis? Or if I go ahead with the test, what are the possible side effects (e.g., for a biopsy) and what would managing them cost? Even if you're confident that you have—and understand—all the relevant information, you're also often making these decisions in an emotionally-charged situation.