Posted by boB on April 14, 2000, at 21:34:43
In reply to Gum Scare at L. A. High School Called a Hoax, posted by Mark H. on April 14, 2000, at 18:52:42
This is a reply to both the gum scare and to the arson spree. Lack of dental care is far more pervasive than many want to realize. Peridontal infection, i can say from experience, can lead to mental duress.
Likewise, ADs are often prescribed by family doctors with little or no follow up. Children show up at school on them and noone knows they might be suffering a medically induced hypermanic episode.
The problem, as I see it, is the doctrine of "fewness" that is intended to assure quality medical practices. Instead the doctrine assures that there will not be enough health care providers to go around, and that the care provided by the few extremely overpaid providers will be limited to a very brief visit.
The poor example of medical professionals, demanding high incomes at a time when greed and consumer behavior is as pathological as any substance addiction, reflects the moral vacuum of our culture. I guess the need of the Good Dr. here to apologize for what would be otherwise expected of anyone in a healthy culture (that they effectively control social situations they create) reflects our lack of moral authority. I read some recent sociology texts that correlate loss of personal authority with the international spread of consumer culture.
Just some thoughts. I don't mean to condemn the study of science or the practice of medicine. I guess I am saying that just because we get a good job does not mean we are excused from critical moral responsibility and we might need to listen to our conscience even when everyone around us is listening to Jerry Springer as if that is Okay.
poster:boB
thread:29975
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000411/msgs/30047.html