24. Treating Humans Not Diagnoses

“I like to assess the person first so that I don't let the findings in an MRI cloud my judgment on what I think I'm seeing,” explains host Dr. Andrew. When people are not feeling great in their bodies, they often wonder if they should see a physical therapist or get an MRI first. With this in mind, Dr. Andrew explains how images aren’t always the primary factor in physical therapists’ treatment plans.    When Dr. Andrew meets with a patient, he assesses the source of their discomfort straight on, regardless of what the MRI says. Although imaging can be helpful, getting an X-ray before seeing a physical therapist is often not beneficial to patients as many doctors fail to explain the MRI. Before getting an MRI, it’s important to see a physical therapist first, because healthcare should treat human beings, not images.   Tune into this week’s episode of The Code for an engaging conversation on treating humans, not the diagnoses. Learn more about imaging vs. physical therapy, why Dr. Andrew doesn’t always need an X-ray to assess a patient, and how unnecessary MRIs can lead to irresponsible healthcare.   Quotes • “In healthcare, we treat human beings. We shouldn't be treating images, diagnoses listed on a computer, or somebody's chart.” (1:57-2:09 | Andrew) • “I like to assess the person first so that I don't let the findings in an MRI cloud my judgment on what I think I'm seeing.” (4:07-4:14 | Andrew) • “Providers, like myself and the rest of our team here at Physio Room, are trained to assess what's going on clinically, and then pick out what we call yellow and red flags.” (6:52-7:04 | Andrew) • “You're a human being. You're not a diagnosis. You're not what an image shows. And that's how we should be treating you in the healthcare industry.” (12:59-13:08 | Andrew)   Links   Connect with Physio Room:  Website | ​​https://physioroomco.com/  Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/physioroomco/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/physioroomco Andrew’s Personal Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/dr.andrewfix/  Andrew’s Personal Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/andrew.fix.9/   Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm