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Book Review of Second Opinions: Stories of Intuition and Choice in the Changing World of Medicine: Eight Clinical Dramas of Decision Making on the Front Lines of Medicine

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Dr. Jerome Groopman relates eight true-life short stories centering on medical care during a health crisis. He looks closely at the decision point when a patient encouraged by his doctor chooses the path he or she wants to take. Often ignored is the possibility of doing nothing, a legitimate decision in which the status quo might prove statistically to be the better response than the medical solution. Dr. Groopman also examines the aftermath of an improper diagnosis.
The stories are well written, interesting, and though not all end happily, they do provide the reader with enough information to enable the audience to take control of the medical decision process. Any "solution including the status quo involves risk, but Dr. Groopman explains what factors the patient and his or her family should consider in deciding what they think is the right course for them. SECOND OPINIONS is a must read work consisting of simple, heart wrenching true-life stories that offer much insight into the emotional process used in making medical decisions. With this primer and his previous book (see THE MEASURE OF OUR DAYS), Dr. Groopman proves he is one of the leading writer on modern day health care.