Status of Physicians

It is a common belief that MDs are "all knowing". This is a natural feeling because just like with any other occupation, going through rigorous training/education and meeting certain qualifications proves they are able to make better judgments and offer better advice in their specific area of expertise. As many have pointed out before me, society places a huge emphasis on the hierarchy of quality health care. And since MDs are required to have the most training, they are at the top of the hierarchy. Therefore having the highest status and demanding (in a way)the most respect. Because of this hierarchy, any advice offered by a nurse or a PA, is considered second class information and taken with a grain of salt.

In my opinion, the respect and status of MDs is definitely deserved, but I also believe that there are other under-used resources in the health field as well. Generally speaking, there is a certain level of trust that develops between Dr and patient that is absent in relationships with public health advisors and other PM professionals. This level of trust is often based on outcome of health conditions. Since preventative medicine is more of a long term commitment that usually produces gradual change over a longer period of time, positive results usually go unnoticed. On the other hand however, positive results of biomedical treatments are seen almost immediately, making the effect of the treatment more apparent. Also, MD measures tend to be much more invasive that cause extreme changes in health. Many think that the prescription of drugs or a simple operation performed by a Dr will be able to erase years of damage done to their bodies. And impressive results cause people to believe that Drs are not just life savers, but miracle workers.