I agree with most of what everyone says. Hell, there are very few people who take pediatric patients who refuse vaccinations here. I let them. It's their kid.
I don't think Chris completely meant it in the way everyone took it. I guess I would look at it more like venting.
I had a patient bring their three-week-old infant in for colic, vomiting, eczema and diarrhea in the stool. Slam dunk milk protein intolerance. No, we don't need Zantac. I don't like medications. Not going to argue the merit of Zantac. And, that is one that is no big deal. Seems like you need Nutramigen. At least until we make the diagnosis. It's too expensive, can we wait? I'm like sure. (you'll be back) You don't outgrow an acute cow's milk sensitivity. How about hemoccult cards. Nope.
So, venting, "Why did you even come in?"
But, overall I agree. What I don't agree with is saying that there is merit to their not taking advice based on it may debunked later. I know I am possibly twisting it around. But, at the moment, it is difficult for them to think, I will not do it, because you may be wrong in ten years. Sure, it's fine for someone to turn down the flu shot, because it may cause Influenza A, and they have never had it anyway, and they may die from Influenza A pneumonia. We all know that is wrong. If they don't want the shot, fine. But, not because we may find out it that the dead vaccine does cause Influenza.
I don't even argue with them. Just tell them, it would be a good idea to get it. Up to you. But, I do tell them to call me when they see someone get Diphtheria or Polio or Tetanus or H. flu after the vaccine. Then, I will stop vaccinating.
It's funny the type of advice that works. If you have a Medicaid patient, DHHS couldn't care less if they go to any of their well child visits. They don't care at all if they get one shot. Until someone calls to report them for anything. Then they want to know if they have missed one wcc visit or are they up to date with their shots. So, when there have been past issues with DHHS or they are in a custody battle, they won't get the shots because they are helpful, they will get them because not getting them will work against them in court.
