There was discussion today in DPaC about terminology – “chronic disease” vs “long term conditions”. I think that the problem is that descriptively accurate terminology is necessary for clarity in medical records and teaching etc., but some misunderstand them, or are offended. Political correctness is not a reason to change terminology – we need to be clear and truthful! Care, of course, is needed in describing things to patients.
The BMJ today gives an article on “age discrimination“. I’ve not read it properly yet, but my position is that there are wrong forms of discrimination, but on the other hand, medical care needs to be based on evidence and limitations of resources. So, if very few people benefit from a particular treatment in a certain age group, I can see why it’s not offered (routinely). Of course we have to treat each patient as individuals, but, even in the NHS, there are limits to resources. There must be ‘discrimination’ when allocating resources. A lot of big questions as to how to do things!
Just on the radio now, a Jewish school (I think it’s a school) is being accused of breaking race relations acts – and that God’s a racist! (Programme on radio 4 this evening, 8pm.) What a ridiculous country we live in!
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