Episode 28: Why is it so hard to get a hypothyroidism diagnosis

Why is it so difficult to get diagnosed with hypothyroidism and Hashimoto's in the current healthcare system? As a healthcare practitioner, it's pretty rare when a patient says, "Yeah, I had symptoms and right away they diagnosed me with hypothyroidism.” Several reasons go into why it’s hard to get a hypothyroidism diagnosis:• The disease comes on slowly so it can go misdiagnosed for years.• Doctors do not screen for thyroid antibodies that would catch early Hashimoto’s because it’s not covered by insurance or considered standard of care.• Conventional lab ranges are too wide.• TSH can fluctuate up and down and may be normal at the time of the test.• HMO doctors are assessed based on how much each of their patients cost and avoid tests they feel are unnecessary.To learn more, visit the site or the online Hashimoto's: Solving the Puzzle course page.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.