On the other hand, self-trained patients are, for all practical purposes, frustrated doctors. They abhor traditional medicine and regularly cluster in intensive support groups where they criticize M.D.s as self-serving, ignorant, arrogant Neanderthals. They prefer macrobiotics over antibiotics. They drive doctors nuts. Fortunately, they're generally healthy, but when, on occasion, they become ill and seek medical attention, the earth trembles.
Some patients undergo their training in small community hospitals.
Although these people are reasonably well-versed in basic disease processes, they may not be aware of new advances in diagnosis and therapy. Also, they tend to be suspicious of doctors and nurses. They are experienced enough to recognize the unnerving frequency with which health care professionals make mistakes and fly by the seats of their pants. I want a second opinion. With good fortune and continuing medical adventures, these patients can progress to the next level of expertise, providing they don't become thoroughly confused by the enormous amount of misinformation on the Internet.