Why is it that Gastroenterologists do not better prepare their patients for a "First Colonoscopy"?
Having a first colonoscopy is a very anxious and stressful time for many people. I had my first one (2/06) and felt like my doctor had not prepared me very well for what to expect. I have done much research since then and wish I had done more prior to my exam. I definately would not have been as stressed before as well as after my exam. I have since read that research has been done on this topic and it seems that different patients require different amounts of information. Some requiring a lot, while others would rather not know. I am one that wants to know. Anyway, for those of you who want to be better educated on a First Colonoscopy – please e-mail me. I found a website where you can watch a free 10 minute video on this subject. I think that once your doctor decides that you should have a colonoscopy and you have to make the appointment for one – they should sit you down to watch this dvd. I feel so strongly about this – I am planning to buy it for my doctor’s office 0.
I felt adequately prepared even without a video. The prep was the worst (Phospho-soda…ugh!!). I slept through the procedure.
A ten minute video of a colonoscopy costs $150?!! LOL. Medical industry.
Anyway, doctors don’t prepare patients very well for any procedure, really. They are focused on tests and treatments and diseases, not on people and their people needs, and lack good people skills. It’s been complained of regularly, and some schools try to include people skills in their course work, but of course, the individual doctors just go ahead and focus where they want.
Please see the webpage for more details on Colonoscopy.