To the Editor: Schattner1,2 and Wong3 raise issues that examine what has been the core of medical practice since antiquity. Grasping antiquity for its own sake is problematic, at best, and possibly heralds the extinction of long held practices, at worst. As technology improves, we are witnesses to improved imaging modalities that provide higher diagnostic yields, with improved sensitivity and specificity, at increasingly reduced costs. Refusal to even acknowledge the possibility that the history and examination may be terminal is not prudent. Instead, we need to examine carefully our mantra(s) with respect for the temporal nature of medicine.
The full article is accessible to AMA members and paid subscribers. Login to read more or purchase a subscription now.
Please note: institutional and Research4Life access to the MJA is now provided through Wiley Online Library.
