Disclaimer over test reliability "eats into MD's profits"

VA governor fighting against State legislation that requires MDs to notify patients that Lyme testing can be unreliable.

/therepublicanstandard.com/filkin-northam-bad-news-lyme-sufferers/

"Lyme tests are widely known to be 35-50 percent unreliable. This particular bill requires anyone being tested for Lyme disease to be given a statement, in writing, stating that current testing for Lyme is unreliable and that a negative test does not mean you aren’t infected.

...In an appalling and specious floor speech discussing the bill, Dr. Northam essentially said providing a piece of paper to his patients would reduce the profitability of his medical practice."

- and there you have it. I appreciate his honesty.

-p

I agree. I'm not even sure I understand why he's stating that.

Most MDs we hear about here on the forum are avoiding diagnosing because:

a) they're following the disinfo that suggests most "Lyme" cases aren't Lyme

b) they're knowingly following the disinfo in order to not get involved

c) they know there's a controversy but have no idea what it's about - best to avoid lest they bother to learn something

d) they believe everything a computer or a lab result says

e) they know exactly what they're doing but have no idea what to do with a positive Lyme test or how to clinically diagnose so they tell people they don't have Lyme

f) they know exactly what they're doing and that their patients have Lyme but are doing everything to avoid being involved in failing to properly treat with approved guidelines, but aren't willing to risk their practice to do what's needed to treat effectively.

So, is he suggesting that he wants more leeway to successfully lie to people so that he doesn't have to "deal" with Lyme? Or is he suggesting that giving people a proper diagnosis costs him money?

Regarding his malpractice insurance company or the insurance providers of the plans he's participating in - what are they holding over his head? An incentive to avoid diagnosing Lyme? Is this like the $40k incentive given to pediatricians by Blue Cross Blue Shield for meeting a quota for vaccinating hundreds of kids?

Most MDs aren't independent practitioners - most are 'owned' by the insurance companies. Most enjoy kickbacks from the pharmaceutical companies.

-p