Isn't it funny.... (i.e. so wrong...)

[tsgirl]

I agree completely that pregnant women are not afforded the respect & consideration they deserve when it comes to their health choices!

However, I have to disagree that this is a problem solely faced by expectant mums. The health system as a whole (particularly the public system) doesn't cope well with educated, motivated individuals. It is focussed on a paint by numbers approach that is designed for a 'best fit' outcome where as many individuals as possible can be pigeon holed with the same care. It is outrageous that patients are not treated with more respect, offered more choices, expected to be more responsible for their care. This is mostly about economy .. far more cost effective to offer a paternalistic system that gives 'most' patients 'adequate' care.

From personal experience your choices as a tx patient are zero. You're a number in the system and it takes a LOT of energy to demand individual care. There is NO private care available for tx ... which is a ridiculous waste of tax payers money, but that is a whole other argument.

If you chose to supplement your cancer treatments with natural therapies you will be patronised at best. Heaven forbid you choose alternative treatment exclusively, you better be ready for abuse on a grand scale.

Something as simple as choosing a vegetarian diet is enough to invite ridicule and judgement from many in the health system. And don't for a second think having researched your decisions and being armed with the science to back them up makes you immune.

Health in this country, including that available to pregnant women is following a frightening path. We are heading towards the US system of diagnosis & treatment determined by bean counters, not medical experts. The best chance we have of reversing this trend is to inform ourselves thoroughly and NOT be intimidated by members of the system who's best interests are served by quieting our protests. If you are not comfortable or satisfied with the health care you are receiving SPEAK OUT. Then put it in writing, to the professional & institution involved, to your family and friends, to your local member & to State & Federal Health Ministers. This country is witnessing a crisis in health that is appalling, but the most frightening thing about it is that much of the witness is silent.

Sorry .. long ramble, happens to be a topic close to my heart.