How Doctors Think: Summary of the Key Ideas - Original Book by Jerome Groopman

Our health is extremely important, but doctors can make mistakes as well and might sometimes give a wrong diagnosis. To lower the risk for such errors, it is essential for the doctor and patient to communicate openly with each other, in order to avoid uncertainty and find the best possible treatment.

Who should read this book:
• Patients who want to learn how to successfully communicate with doctors about their medical needs.
• Doctors who want to get a better understanding of the patients’ minds and how to make their choices easier.
• Anyone interested in getting further insight into the medical sector.

In this summary:
Chapter 1: Doctors and patients need to communicate effectively
Chapter 2: Stereotypes and the tendency to focus on the positive aspects can lead to errors
Chapter 3: Physicians have to think broadly even in emergency situations
Chapter 4: The treatment of children relies heavily on the cooperation of their parents
Chapter 5: Acting on instincts requires a certain amount of courage
Chapter 6: Acknowledging uncertainty can make it easier to deal with failures
Chapter 7: Doctors should focus on honesty to help patients accept the reality
Chapter 8: Radiologists often work better with less information
Chapter 9: Pharmaceutical companies should educate doctors about new drugs
Chapter 10: Doctors can help patients make the right choice
Chapter 11: Final Summary
Evolvo opinion