When my doctor ordered a CT scan that I didn’t need, I found myself in an uncomfortable position. Even though, as a physician myself, I knew that it was unnecessary, as a patient, I still felt compelled to comply.
In this article I explain how difficult it can be to say no to bad advice since it can be uncomfortable to suggest that someone is wrong or biased. This instinct to avoid embarrassment can lead us to make bad decisions by following suggestions we don’t trust. This can apply to various situations such as accepting unwise medical advice, following unethical directives at work, or paying for unnecessary repairs to a car. To turn down even obviously wrong recommendations can be challenging, but it’s essential to do so to avoid negative consequences.
You can read my full article in the LA Times.
