Second Opinion

Latest Episodes:

The impact of open medical records Mar 12, 2021

Show notes

A new law requires all medical records including clinician’s notes to be freely available to patients. Depending on your perspective this is either a long overdue transparency benefit or a hinderance to good medical care.

Accuracy of newly approved cancer drugs Mar 07, 2021

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Why is that results from drug research studies are so much rosier than the experience using those same drugs in the real world?

Unplanned pregnancies and contraceptives Feb 28, 2021

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Long acting reversible contraceptive (LARC’s) are under-used and often too expensive for many women – but this significantly restricts a woman’s contraceptive autonomy.

The health risks of eating chicken eggs Feb 21, 2021

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There as been lots of controversy on the health impact of eating eggs but some recent good studies suggest we may finally be reaching consensus.

The impact of stigma on sex workers Feb 14, 2021

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Sex workers often experience stigma both related to their occupation as well as to mental health issues they may face.

Treatments that just don’t work Feb 07, 2021

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While it often seems better to do something, there are times when it may be better to do nothing – such as taking Vitamin D or Homeopathic medicines.

Trauma and adversity can lead to resiliency Jan 31, 2021

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Sometimes it seems that we risk being overwhelmed by all that is thrown at us. But, resiliency is an important life skill that can be learned from interacting with those who are resilient.

Does this treatment really work? Jan 24, 2021

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Next time you are being prescribed a drug or offered a procedure, ask the doctor, “what does research suggest is the likely benefit I can expect from this intervention”?

The Shkreli Awards for health care dysfunction and greed. Jan 17, 2021

Show notes

Each year the Lown Institute calls for nominations from health care experts, journalists and others. This year an outstanding panel of judges selected 10 egregious examples of profiteering.

Entitlement and COVID Jan 10, 2021

Show notes

Are some people more deserving than others? Should queues and priorities apply to everyone or should some people be able to jump ahead?