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The advance of modern medicine is truly amazing. It seems that nearly every week, those who provide home health care in Rancho Santa Fe hear of a breakthrough in Alzheimer’s research, a new lifesaving device or the development of a more effective drug. But the American College of Physicians is warning patients against assuming that every new product or service they see advertised on TV is better than the options they already have.
Cost Isn’t the Whole Story
Heavily advertised new drugs for diabetes control, for example, can cost over $200.00 for a one-month supply. The traditional drug, which has been around for decades, costs about $14.00 per month. The high-cost one must be better, right?In a significant difference from the way things usually work, doctors in the ACP are publicly saying that the newer drugs are quite often not the best choice.
Traditional Options Often The Best
You might not realize it, but in many ways medicine follows the pattern of many other industries: Tried-and-true products and services like home health care are often more effective than even the most exciting innovations. For example, the ACP’s statements suggest that in many cases a good old-fashioned visit to a chiropractor is a more effective back pain solution than an expensive MRI.
Don’t Get Caught Up in the Hype
Of course, the cutting-edge drugs of today might be the established treasures of the future. But until they have been proven over time, it is a mistake to spend huge amounts of money on them just because we get caught up in the excitement of advertising. Trust your loved one’s doctor to guide them in an effective treatment program, even if that includes simple treatments and home heath care instead of the latest and greatest solutions.
Originally posted 2012-05-28 10:30:14.