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by anthonyskipper 403 days ago
You don't pay your doctors, insurance does, so I mostly expect insurance will replace doctors with chatbots as soon as its feasible. Sadly in a large percentage of scenarios that would actually be an improved outcome. (yes, not all and those are the ones that will probably kill you... but come on, medicine is such a disaster its should be completley rebooted)
2 comments
incomingpain 403 days ago
>Sadly in a large percentage of scenarios that would actually be an improved outcome.

I predict triage will be converted to AI who will be able to offer minor prescriptions, stuff unavailable to over the counter, without doctor oversight. Like allergies, rashes, insect stuff, fungal or worms. Will likely be able to reduce medical load by treating people who just need to be sent to get over the counter stuff.

> but come on, medicine is such a disaster its should be completley rebooted)

Agreed, but is AI the right move? Do you really want to be the first one to try it?

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willcipriano 403 days ago
> offer minor prescriptions, stuff unavailable to over the counter, without doctor oversight.

In Europe you can just buy those sort of things outright in many cases. Things like inhalers can just be had without getting a doctor on board.

I believe it's a uniquely US thing where the doctor needs to collect a well visit fee on you treating yourself for a common or chronic illness.

"You still have asthma? OK, here is permission from my caste to breathe, pay the fee on your way out." Is bonkers when you think about it.

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colonial 403 days ago
Asthma inhalers (at least, some types) are available over the counter here.

As far as I know, only "narcotics" (opiates, psychostimulants...) require regular check-ins (due to byzantine legislation) - but even that's been worked around with one-click refill requests and telehealth.

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willcipriano 403 days ago
The types available over the counter are unsafe for long term use and frankly worse in every way compared to the one you need a doctors permission to purchase.

You need a established relationship to access one click refill and telehealth, they will tell you to come in after a time.

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cbg0 403 days ago
> Sadly in a large percentage of scenarios that would actually be an improved outcome.

Do you have some stats to back that up?

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esafak 403 days ago
Oh yes, I asked chatGPT.
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