In this episode of Walk, Don't Run to the Doctor, Dr. Miles Hassell challenges a deeply ingrained assumption: that you should fully trust your doctor without question. While physicians often care deeply about their patients, they are also human—limited by time, bias, systems, and expertise. This conversation is about reclaiming agency in your healthcare, learning how to ask better questions, and becoming an active participant in decisions that affect your long-term health and healthspan.
Dr. Hassell explores common pitfalls in modern medicine—like "anchoring" on one diagnosis, algorithm-driven care, and one-size-fits-all treatments—and explains why patients who understand their own bodies and conditions are often best positioned to advocate for themselves.
Key Takeaways:
You know your body and history better than any doctor—your input matters
Niceness and good intentions don't replace competence or careful thinking
Doctors (and patients) are vulnerable to bias, assumptions, and blind spots
Ask better questions: How effective is this treatment for me? What are the risks?
Be cautious of algorithm-driven, one-size-fits-all medical decisions
Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, weight, sunlight) can reverse or improve many chronic conditions
Use multiple sources of evidence—don't rely on one study, one expert, or one website
Build long-term relationships with competent, caring healthcare professionals
Prioritize your health now—healthspan matters more than lifespan
This episode is a call to lead your own healthcare journey with humility, curiosity, and intention—so you can make decisions that truly align with your values and goals.
