Steve
It looks like Chris hit a nerve with you, but remember: ad hominem comments
seldom change a person’s thinking.
Let’s hope that Chris’ remarks were intended for the well being of his
patient. Offering false hope or bowing to unreasonable expectations is a
temptation we in this field have all faced.
Some of our patients *want their cake and they want to eat it, too.* If
obesity is a hinderance to successful mobility then the facts should be
discussed kindly and clearly.
If weight loss is not an option, and if an orthosis cannot be used at the
present weight, then making the orthosis seems a futile gesture.
I wish you all peace and good fortune.
Dave
———————————-
DMProcter, CPO
OmniCare Labs
—– Original Message —–
From: Steve’s Account
To:
Sent: Friday, December 11, 1998 1:19 AM
Subject: Re: OANDP-L Digest – 8 Dec 1998 to 9 Dec 1998
>> From: Chris Drake
>> Subject: Re: Fwd: Girdle-Stone Resection
>>
>Chris writes:
>>
>>
>> Don’t Go there without using at least a free hip Joint and wide pelvic
>> band. In my opinion you don’t stand a chance without using one. But as
>> usual I’m always happy to be proved wrong.
>>
>> Have Fun
>>
>> p.s Also tell the patient in no uncertain terms to lose weight.
>> Organise some help if needed and then set goals and a wieght level at
>> which you will start the work.
>>
>>
>> No loss of weight no *Orthosis*.
>>
>I sincerely hope that your concern is based on the fact that you believe
that
>it is impossible for you (or anyone) to be successful in fitting this
>person with an effective orthotis for TECHNICAL reasons.
>
>To refuse to provide care to this person in an attempt to coerce weight
loss
>is, in my opinion, 1) VERY unprofessional and 2) likely to make matters
worse!
>
>I don’t see anyting wrong with your counseling the patient that “weight
loss
>would be a help… but to refuse to provide care because of his weight is
just
>”beyond the pale”. What other “defects” do you see as valid resons to deny
care?
>
>If my assumption is correct, maybe you should consider another “caring”
>profession for your life’s work.. Say loan sharking or maybe mob enforcer.
>
>Sheesh!
>
>Steve
>
