Lindsey Fitzharris’ book describes the amazing innovations in plastic surgery brought about because of the horrors of World War I. War is hell, but often it leads to advances in medical technique that translate to peacetime. In The Facemaker, Lindsey Fitzharris tells the inspiring story of Harold Gillies, a visionary surgeon… read more "The Facemaker"
The AMA’s Guide to Politically Correct Language: Advancing Health Equity
The AMA urges us to promote health equity by adding progressive political language to what were once simple statements of fact. The American Medical Association has just released Advancing Health Equity: A Guide to Language, Narrative and Concepts. Jesse Singal has been tweeting about it, calling it “a strange document that… read more "The AMA’s Guide to Politically Correct Language: Advancing Health Equity"
Misogyny in Medicine
Misogyny persists in clinical and academic medicine. We need to be aware of subtle micro aggressions and report abuses, but we mustn’t get carried away into paranoia and conspiracy theories. We should be guided by common sense and moderation in all things. In the June 17, 2021 issue of The New… read more "Misogyny in Medicine"
Osteopathy Then and Now
When the President’s doctor, Sean Conley, came down the front steps of Walter Reed Army Medical Center to brief the nation on the President’s health, it caused consternation in some quarters. His name was followed by the letters DO rather than MD. Some people questioned “why the president was being… read more "Osteopathy Then and Now"
Wear a Mask, But Act as If It Doesn’t Work
As I write this on June 29, 2020, we are in the midst of a global pandemic with a scary, rapidly spreading new virus that we don’t understand very well yet. Globally, 10,199,798 have become infected and 502,947 have died, for a 4.93% death rate. In the U.S., 125,928 people… read more "Wear a Mask, But Act as If It Doesn’t Work"
Charlatans for Christmas
A novel by Robin Cook is a great read with a medical theme. It brings up some serious questions about quality control and medical education. Today is a holiday in the U.S. It is a day to give and receive, to enjoy family and friends, a day of selflessness and… read more "Charlatans for Christmas"
The Incorrigible Dr. Oz
Dr. Mehmet Oz, the cardiothoracic surgeon who became a media star thanks to Oprah, has been widely criticized by physicians and others for giving non-scientific medical advice. The James Randi Educational Foundation dishonored him with three Pigasus awards, more than any other recipient. A study in the British Medical Journal… read more "The Incorrigible Dr. Oz"
Book Review Lagniappe
Lagniappe, a word often heard in New Orleans, refers to a bonus or extra gift, like the thirteenth donut in a baker’s dozen. You may have noticed that I write a lot of book reviews. I read far more books than I review, and I have always loved to read… read more "Book Review Lagniappe"
Physician Wallace Sampson, Expert on False Medical Claims, Dies at Eighty-Five
The skeptical community has lost a shining star. On May 25, 2015, Wallace Sampson, MD, died in California at the age of eighty-five from complications of heart surgery; he had been in the hospital since February. He is survived by his wife of fifty-nine years, five sons, and nine grandchildren.… read more "Physician Wallace Sampson, Expert on False Medical Claims, Dies at Eighty-Five"
Defending Science-Based Medicine: 44 Doctor-Bashing Arguments …and Their Rebuttals
Supporters of alternative medicine and purveyors of quack remedies love to criticize conventional medicine and science. They keep repeating the same tired arguments that are easily rebutted. This handy guide will help skeptics answer common criticisms from doctor-bashers. Doctor-bashing is a popular sport practiced by believers in complementary and alternative… read more "Defending Science-Based Medicine: 44 Doctor-Bashing Arguments …and Their Rebuttals"