This is a good book for patients to read. It will help you be a better advocate for your own health. It will help you organize your medical information and get the most out of your doctor visits. It will help us docs to focus on the most important problems. Due to the squeeze from insurance companies we have less time than ever to spend the time we want with our patients so it's imperative that everyone comes prepared. Before I see a patient, I spend time reviewing the chart, labs, reports etc. and have a plan of what I want to accomplish in the face to face visit. I expect my patient to do the same; review your meds, list your problems and questions in order of importance. You should have a list of your medications with the dose, how often you take it and what it is for. You should know if you need any refills. I like to look at the doctor appointment like meeting with your tax accountant. I always show up at my tax accountant's office with all my documents and questions in order. I do what my tax guy tells me to do to save the most money. Why wouldn't you do the same with your health? Don't you want to maximize your time on earth? It doesn't hurt the doctor if you don't follow their advice, in fact it'll probably help their bottom line as you return over and over for the same problem.

The book also discusses the utility of vitamins and supplements in this country. It provides information on cancer and resources (links) to learn what individual risk factors you may have and how to change them. I'd like to see a copy of this book in all doctor office waiting rooms.