I did my research

I think every healthcare provider in the United States has experienced a certain level of trauma or discomfort surrounding the phrase “I did my research.” This statement, while seemingly innocuous at first, often serves as a precursor to confrontational or aggressive interactions. I cannot emphasize enough how many times I have heard this phrase uttered, only to find that the individual who said it subsequently became defensive or combative regarding their opinions on medical treatments or diagnoses. This reaction can create a challenging dynamic between patients and providers, making effective communication more difficult.

A pair of eyeglasses rests on an open notebook filled with handwritten notes, accompanied by a pen, symbolizing a moment of contemplation and study at a cozy workspace.

Personally, I genuinely believe that it is beneficial for individuals to take the initiative to read and learn about their health conditions. Knowledge empowers patients, and it can lead to more informed discussions during consultations. However, it is crucial that the sources they rely on for this information are credible and provide evidence-based answers. I take great pride in my patients who demonstrate an understanding of their medications and health conditions. When patients come to me equipped with accurate information, it fosters a collaborative environment where we can work together to achieve the best possible health outcomes.

That said, I have a wealth of opinions on various health-related topics, and I strive to express them clearly as personal viewpoints. However, I often find that people tend to conflate opinions with established facts. This confusion can be detrimental, especially in the realm of healthcare, where accurate information is paramount. Scientists and healthcare professionals dedicate extensive periods of their lives to learning how to read, interpret, and critically analyze research studies. In my view, unless I am the author of a scientific article, I do not consider my efforts to be “doing research” in the true sense of the word.

What most individuals have done when they assert that they have conducted their own research is often more accurately described as a literature or lit search. This process typically begins with a specific question or area of concern, followed by a search for existing knowledge and studies related to that question. The individual gathers information and assesses where gaps in understanding exist or where further evidence is required. In today’s digital age, this task has become increasingly complex. Not only must one gather credible sources and review them for relevance and accuracy, but it is also essential to verify that these sources are not AI-generated or fabricated studies circulating on the internet. For instance, if I come across an article in a journal, I will take the extra step to visit the journal's official website to confirm that the article indeed exists and is legitimate. Additionally, I approach unfamiliar journals with a healthy skepticism, as the quality of publications can vary widely.

Once a researcher has gathered sufficient information, they would typically write an Institutional Review Board (IRB) proposal and submit it for approval from their research institution. This is a critical step in the research process, as it ensures that ethical standards are upheld when conducting studies involving human subjects. If the proposal is not approved, the researcher must return to the literature and adjust their research goals to align with the IRB’s requirements. This iterative process is just the very beginning stages of formal research, which can be time-consuming and requires a significant commitment of resources.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being active on various educational platforms is the opportunity to disseminate evidence-based information to a wider audience. While I would not classify this dissemination as research in the traditional sense, I consider it more akin to a pre-literature search or a form of general education about specific health subjects. The aim is to provide reliable and accurate information that individuals can use to inform their understanding of health issues.

Ultimately, words carry significant weight. Your understanding of your health is paramount, and having access to high-quality, evidence-based information is essential for making informed decisions about your care. It is vital that both patients and healthcare providers engage in open, respectful dialogue, grounded in accurate information, to foster a healthier society.