Welcome to the latest episode of Unlocking Your Greatness with Wendy Bjork.
Wendy is an international bestselling author, nationally syndicated columnist, inspirational speaker and founder of HeartsOfWellness.com.
Her mission is to empower women navigating Multiple Sclerosis to build a strong Foundation of Wellbeing: One Whole-istic™ Step at a Time.
She understands this journey well, as she has been living with Multiple Sclerosis for over three decades, since the age of 15. She has been inspired to lead other women on a healing path after realizing the gaps in care that affect so many. It’s time to bridge the gaps for a better life!
Have this ever happened to you? The last time I saw one of my neurologists, she was pretty insistent I try one of the new experimental infusion medications to “treat” the Multiple Sclerosis I live with. I politely told her no FIVE times before she gave up until next time.
No, I am not a medical doctor, but after living with MS for over three decades, I feel pretty confident in my experiences and expertise. I know the infusion she was pushing costs well over $100,000 annually and is experimental. Meaning you have a chance of delaying progression, increasing progression or even dying.
There are several reasons why some doctors may appear “pushy” or insistent about patients taking certain medications. In most cases, their motivation centers around ensuring patient well-being and adhering to professional standards of care. However, a range of systemic, professional, and personal factors can also contribute to a doctor’s approach to prescribing.
Here are some common reasons why doctors may appear to use “heavy persuasion” when it comes to pharmaceuticals.
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Evidence-Based Guidelines
Most physicians rely on clinical guidelines derived from rigorous scientific research. These guidelines often recommend specific medications as the first-line (or best) treatment for various conditions. If, for example, a patient has high blood pressure, guidelines clearly outline which antihypertensive medications are most effective. Doctors may strongly encourage these medications because they are following established best practices. -
Patient Outcomes and Risk Management
Doctors bear a significant responsibility for patient outcomes. Many conditions—such as diabetes, heart disease, or serious infections—carry risks if not treated properly. Medications can prevent disease progression or even save lives. If a doctor strongly recommends a pharmaceutical, it is often because they believe that not doing so could result in harm or suboptimal results for the patient. -
Pharmaceutical Marketing and Industry Influence
Pharmaceutical Marketing: It’s no secret that pharmaceutical companies devote substantial resources to marketing drugs. While ethical guidelines and policies are in place to reduce the influence of these marketing efforts, doctors still receive information (e.g., through conferences, medical journals, or pharmaceutical representatives) that may frame new drugs in a favorable way.
- Bias and Conflict of Interest: In some cases, there may be concerns about conflicts of interest. For example, a physician may participate in speaking engagements sponsored by a pharmaceutical firm or receive research grants. Such relationships can create perceived (or actual) bias. However, professional bodies have instituted stricter disclosure rules to increase transparency.
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Time Constraints and Communication Style
Brief Office Visits: Many doctors are constrained by short appointment times, especially in certain healthcare systems. Under time pressure, a doctor may come across as more directive or “persuasive” when discussing medication, simply because they need to convey essential information quickly. Desire for Adherence: Non-adherence—when patients do not take medications as prescribed—is a significant challenge. Doctors know that if patients leave uncertain or unconvinced, they may never start or continue the therapy. Thus, physicians may use strong, clear language to stress the importance of taking the medication properly.
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Fear of Legal Liability
In some regions, if a doctor does not prescribe a standard-of-care treatment and a patient’s condition worsens, it could lead to malpractice claims. This legal environment can push healthcare providers to adhere strictly to evidence-based pharmaceutical interventions. -
Patient Expectations and Demand
Sometimes, patients themselves expect quick fixes—often in the form of prescription drugs. A doctor might sense this expectation and focus on the pharmaceutical solution. In other cases, a patient may be resistant, prompting the doctor to emphasize the benefits more forcefully to align with medical best practice.
Striking a Balance is key.
If you ever feel a doctor is “overly insistent” about a medication, here are steps you can take:
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Ask Questions
What are the potential benefits and risks of this medication? Are there non-pharmacological options (e.g., lifestyle changes, therapy, alternative treatments) to consider alongside or instead of medication?
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Seek a Second Opinion
If you are uncomfortable with a recommendation, consulting another doctor can give you additional perspective and potentially more confidence in your decision. -
Discuss Concerns Openly
Communicate any fears or objections you have about taking a certain drug. Often, doctors will work with you to find a plan that aligns with your values and life circumstances. -
Consider Shared Decision-Making
Ask your doctor to walk through a shared decision-making process, which weighs both the medical evidence and your personal preferences, values, and concerns.
Ultimately, while it may sometimes feel like “heavy persuasion,” most doctors aim to align their recommendations with the best available evidence and the patient’s health needs. However, it’s always valid to question, to seek clarity, and—when in doubt—to get another medical opinion.
To support you in creating a path to your dream life with simple steps, download your copy of the Hearts of Wellness 30-Day Journal + Blueprint Bundle Towards Living Your Best Life at heartsofwellness.com/you. It will support you in keeping your desired outcomes all in one place along with the Blueprint which will help you take small steps daily towards a better view of yourself. Benefit from improved self-talk, as well as writing your weekly gratitude list and celebrating your weekly wins. Discovering and living by your personalized playbook are important steps we can create together!
If you feel a safe, supportive, drama-free environment without the censorship of social media sounds like a breath of fresh air, join the free Hearts of Wellness Community for women on their #MS holistic healing journey inside the HeartsofWellness.com/Community!
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