Synopsis from Elephants in The Exam Room
What are the real problems with health care in America today? Are we, as consumers, asking the right questions? Are doctors able to address the issues freely and practice medicine as they were taught to do, without repercussions? Minnesota-based doctor and writer Wayne Liebhard argues that, in order to tackle the very serious and potentially irreparable damage within the "system," we need to face some hard, cold truths.
Without apology, Liebhard has written a passionate and learned exposition that argues against some popular myths favored by the media, pundits, and professionals alike. Why does health care cost so much? Why do we pay so much for drugs? Why doesn't my primary-care doctor have more time to spend with me? Why does it take so long to get an appointment with my doctor and why can't she just treat me over the phone if needed? Why do insurance companies restrict my health care choices? Are we really experiencing a health care "crisis"? Where do agenda-driven politics end, and where does reality begin?
In Elephants in the Exam Room, you will find controversial and often surprising answers--and solutions--from an experienced doctor who has been in the trenches of the health care system for years, as both a committed primary care practitioner and an advocate for change.
"Elephants in the Exam Room has been named a Finalist in the Social Change Category of the 2010 Next Generation Indie Book Awards."
"Health care is a very touchy and complicated subject, so let me refer you to what I think is the best treatise I have ever read on this subject: 'Elephants in the Exam Room,' by Dr. Wayne Liebhard."
-- Minnesota state representative Michael Beard
"Dr. Liebhard debunks health care myths and demystifies the dangerous doublespeak of today's health care debate. He points out that terms like "quality," "evidence-based medicine," and "pay-for-performance" are drawing physicians into an ethical quagmire that undermines the altruistic, patient-centered heart and soul of medical practice."
--Twila Brase, RN, PHN, President Citizens' Council on Health Care
This book is a "must read" for anyone interested in returning control of their health care decisions to consumers and their physicians and away from government regulators and HMO executives. Health care costs can be significantly cut if consumers take responsibility for their lifestyle decisions as well as eliminating the middleman's "piece of the action."
--Thomas A. Stolee, M.D. Past President, Minnesota Medical Association
