I need a good Doctor

During this consultation, Mr Sharp, a new patient, meets his new doctor for the first time. He brings a letter from his previous private doctor outlining his last treatment, which was minimally therapeutic. The patient is keen to pursue this ineffective therapy and seeks assistance from a trustworthy doctor. The new doctor’s problem is maintaining the patient’s confidence and gaining respect without denigrating his previous doctor’s treatment.

The story unfolds that Mr Sharp, while at Cambridge, had difficulty finding a good doctor with whom he could sympathise. However, he eventually alighted upon his private doctor, who had a tremendous reputation. The doctor didn’t believe in tests but was “very positive”. However, the doctor prescribed Vitamin B12, Valium, and Thyroid extract without ordering any tests.

The new doctor is still deciding whether to continue with this risky mixture. The conversation turns to whether he will prescribe it. The patient, Mr Sharp, would receive some medication at a reduced dosage, undergo some tests, and have a follow-up appointment shortly. The patient approved the proposed strategy.