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The primary intent of the study was simply to assess the prevalence of unsupervised use of alternative treatments in a population of glaucoma patients. Buried within Dr. Taylor’s humorous musings is an important message—not to simply accept proposed therapy without evidence. In a separate article we examined the published evidence on various alternative medicine treatments and glaucoma (Surv of Ophthalmol 2001;46:43–55) that speaks directly to your concerns.However, your description of a potential interaction between yourself and a patient who is asking you about alternative medicine treatments also raises a more important issue—communication between the physician and patient. A respectful interchange with a patient serves to solidify the bond and trust placed in the physician. A paternalistic or condescending approach may undermine this important patient-physician relationship. An honest appraisal of nontraditional therapy, without overbearing editorial criticism, will help patients understand an expert’s view and help guide them. Patients may be less inclined to inform doctors of important changes or not ask important questions for fear of embarrassment if their questions are not taken seriously.I would encourage you to keep an open mind regarding any potential treatments yet always seek evidence validating their possible effectiveness. The primary intent of the study was simply to assess the prevalence of unsupervised use of alternative treatments in a population of glaucoma patients. Buried within Dr. Taylor’s humorous musings is an important message—not to simply accept proposed therapy without evidence. In a separate article we examined the published evidence on various alternative medicine treatments and glaucoma (Surv of Ophthalmol 2001;46:43–55) that speaks directly to your concerns. However, your description of a potential interaction between yourself and a patient who is asking you about alternative medicine treatments also raises a more important issue—communication between the physician and patient. A respectful interchange with a patient serves to solidify the bond and trust placed in the physician. A paternalistic or condescending approach may undermine this important patient-physician relationship. An honest appraisal of nontraditional therapy, without overbearing editorial criticism, will help patients understand an expert’s view and help guide them. Patients may be less inclined to inform doctors of important changes or not ask important questions for fear of embarrassment if their questions are not taken seriously. I would encourage you to keep an open mind regarding any potential treatments yet always seek evidence validating their possible effectiveness. ErratumOphthalmologyVol. 110Issue 6Preview Full-Text PDF