A recent poll indicates that many Americans think that they are being “overtreated” by their doctors.
An article describing the poll results says that “[n]early three-quarters (72%) of U.S. adults think that patients who have medical conditions experience problems because of being overtreated (i.e., getting too many treatments or getting more aggressive treatment than is appropriate). In light of these concerns by the public, it’s not surprising to learn that half (50%) of all adults are somewhat or very concerned, personally, about being overtreated when they are sick or in need of medical care.”
One thing particularly troubling about this poll: 53% of adults think that one reason for the overtreat is because of concerns about malpractice suits. The propaganda is working. This is what can happen when you have the ability to spend millions and millions of dollars over thirty years to influence public opinion.