I apologize for any unintentional shaming, judgment, or embarrassment I may have caused my patients during my 15 years of medical practice. As an Obstetrician and Gynecologist, and an executive clinical leader for the past 8 years, I've had the authority to drive change, but I've witnessed the failure of systems and policies to consistently create a space for clinicians and patients to discuss personal and embarrassing topics comfortably. I acknowledge my complicity in this broken healthcare system, where I've played a part in these challenges.
To my patients, I'm sorry for asking extensive sexual health questions when you came in for simple issues. I regret typing notes and clicking away while you sat undressed, feeling rushed to meet time constraints. I recognize the disservice in seeing too many patients per hour, while you might have waited months to discuss deep concerns.
In my efforts to help, I've inadvertently hindered in many ways.
Reflecting on my interactions, I've asked patients, 'Did you share everything you wanted during your last visit, or did you withhold concerns because you feared my reaction?' Their responses humbled me, leading to a strong commitment to address these issues. Here are some key insights:
Many patients withhold their true concerns during exams.
Research, including blogs and surveys, reveals that some patients would rather endure anxiety at home than schedule an appointment.
Some patients would rather lie or avoid healthcare altogether than risk embarrassment, shame, or judgment.
We cannot let this lack of trust in our healthcare system persist. Do you agree that this problem deepens the divide between people and healthcare? If so, join us, share this website, and help us challenge this issue.
Welcome to Taboos. Our mission is to cultivate healthier relationships with ourselves and others by eliminating societal and self-judgments, by nurturing well-being through digital health, community-driven learning, and asynchronous AI-enhanced clinical expert consultation.
We understand that discussing embarrassing or personal topics can be challenging, and we're here to change that. Our platform provides a confidential and non-judgmental space to share concerns and access easily understandable information.
Our vision is to create a world free of judgment and shame where you can freely ask questions and quickly get the help you need. We want our patients to break free from societal taboos' limitations. Until we truly understand our patients' preoccupations, we can't provide effective care.
Taboos is more than just an app - it's a movement to reshape how we view our patients and,
more importantly, how they see themselves.
Stand with us by following us. Be part of the change we're about to ignite.
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