I've never been a fan of "talk shows", no matter the genre, not to mention the lackluster garbage most television networks produce of late. Despite my usual lack of interest, the Dr. Oz Show has more than peaked my interest since the initial broadcast in the fall of last year (2009). I can't get enough of the show. I find it so adorable that all the women who join Dr. Oz from the audience on stage are so taken with Dr. Oz. The admiration reminds me of stories I've heard from family about the fanfare that followed Elvis Presley, except instead of teenagers, these are mature women. Okay, maybe not quite the level of crazed hormonal teenagers, yet it would appear that Dr. Oz, has become, a sex symbol to many. I digress. I wish I lived within a reasonable distance to be a patient at New York Presbyterian Hospital, moreover, the Complementary Care Center. I first learned of the Complementary Care Center in one of the books I am currently enjoying, 'Healing from the Heart' by Mehmet C. Oz, M.D. with Ron Arias and Lisa Oz (1999). Please take note, this book has a copyright date of 1998. While the book is now twelve years old, it remains years ahead of Western medicine.
I bought this book shortly after the myocardial infarction I had two years ago. I am embarrassed that I only began reading it a couple of weeks ago. It is an easy read as the saying goes. I don't know why it took me so long to open; maybe I was scared of the reality. 'Healing from the Heart' is nothing to be frightened of though. Reading it as a heart attack survivor has brought me comfort. Every heart attack/disease survivor should read this book. Dr. Oz isn't just concerned with the mechanics of Western medicine as evident in each chapter. Factual medical information explaining the "biology of an MI" begins in chapter one, followed by the exploration/comparison of various non-traditional or "complementary medicine" as referenced by the author. Dr. Oz clearly wishes to treat and benefit patients not only physically, but emotionally as well. His writing should be required reading for all medical students. The healing ideas discussed should be heeded by all persons wishing to enter into the medical field, and if not, I myself would never want that person as a physician.
Please excuse me while I bird-walk over to the topic of health insurance. It is well past the time that the Western world and insurance companies remain open minded about approaching health as complementary medicine describes - prescription pills and surgeries alone are not the answer. Perhaps this is why insurance companies continue to deny therapies. If these therapies were available, they just may heal people to the point that there is no longer the need for a battery of prescription medicine or unnecessary treatment(s)/surgery(s). Where would the insurance companies be without repeat patients: having only received traditional medical care, still lacking, universal, whole body and mind care!?
Please excuse me while I bird-walk over to the topic of health insurance. It is well past the time that the Western world and insurance companies remain open minded about approaching health as complementary medicine describes - prescription pills and surgeries alone are not the answer. Perhaps this is why insurance companies continue to deny therapies. If these therapies were available, they just may heal people to the point that there is no longer the need for a battery of prescription medicine or unnecessary treatment(s)/surgery(s). Where would the insurance companies be without repeat patients: having only received traditional medical care, still lacking, universal, whole body and mind care!?
Personally, I've explored some of the therapies shared in Dr. Oz's book prior to reading it. While not coming out and labeling the various therapies discussed, it's clear to me that processes such as Reiki are described. (I'm on page 129, so forgive me if I am wrong.) When I met with a Reiki practitioner (or energy healer), I felt a tremendous improvement emotionally and physically. Whether or not this was a placebo effect, what does it matter if overused Western therapies are not proving beneficial? I honestly don't care if it is in my mind or an actual result of Reiki, I feel better! I doubt others who experience chronic pain would (having benefited) state, oh no, this might not truly be effective treatment, and return to therapies that produce less satisfactory physical/emotional results. The same can be said with acupuncture. I found acupuncture to be very beneficial.
Again, I fail to understand why insurance companies do not offer coverage for these types of medical therapies (at least mine doesn't). I can only assume it comes down to their financial situation being more advantageous by having frequent customers. Since this is the case, I'd like my frequent flyer card issued immediately. I 'fly' the standard, repetitive, western medicine skies all too much not to receive a freebie or upgrade at some point. No frequent flyer card available? Okay, I'd much prefer to have my insurance company cover complementary medical treatments in the end anyway. It's ridiculous the insurance hoops patients have to jump through to get the health care they desire. It's a shame in a country that is supposedly so forward thinking. Dr. Oz is a forward thinker (and that doesn't even give his approach justice). I could go on about the book, but like many medical situations, suffering a trauma is pretty personal. Interpretation (by reader) will be individual and personal also.
Again, I fail to understand why insurance companies do not offer coverage for these types of medical therapies (at least mine doesn't). I can only assume it comes down to their financial situation being more advantageous by having frequent customers. Since this is the case, I'd like my frequent flyer card issued immediately. I 'fly' the standard, repetitive, western medicine skies all too much not to receive a freebie or upgrade at some point. No frequent flyer card available? Okay, I'd much prefer to have my insurance company cover complementary medical treatments in the end anyway. It's ridiculous the insurance hoops patients have to jump through to get the health care they desire. It's a shame in a country that is supposedly so forward thinking. Dr. Oz is a forward thinker (and that doesn't even give his approach justice). I could go on about the book, but like many medical situations, suffering a trauma is pretty personal. Interpretation (by reader) will be individual and personal also.
If you are cardiac patient or have a loved one who is, don't pass up Dr. Oz's book. If you want my copy when I'm done, let me know, I'd be happy to pass it along! If you have television, don't pass up the Dr. Oz Show either, it could positively increase your lifetime. Incidentally, I'd be irresponsible if I didn't mention talking with your own doctor prior to making changes to your health care. Everyone is different and your medical providers should always be kept in the know.
