I've spent a lot of time online recently, researching treatments for a specific cancer (not mine). Post-diagnosis I'm able to use the information I have on type, grade, stage and mets to scope out the next stage of treatment. In fact, we were aware well before the consultant realised (at the prescription writing stage) that the next phase of treatment wasn't going to be available geographically. I know for a fact that it is now available but having chased the professionals on this for the last six weeks, not even the consultant is aware of this.
Other HCPs tell me that I need to be aware that all cancers vary at cellular level and this particular treatment may not be appropriate, whereas I'm well aware that it is - having been recommended the treatment by the consultant.
I feel that HCPs in particular have a tendency to roll their eyes at what they see as armchair medics hysterically Googling their symptoms. In another instance though I took some legal advice and was simply provided with information I'd already found for myself.
AIBU to think that some professionals need to recognise that the general public is savvy enough to judge for themselves the reliability of information they find online - a skill taught from an early age now - and need to stop patronising those of us who do so by dismissing or eye rolling when presented with info that they themselves were not already aware of?
I'm not in any way suggesting that we should all be self-diagnosing or representing, but that actually the Internet is a priceless tool in disseminating information for everyone.