Patient Hacker is written by Cris Cuthbertson, also known as DrCris.
She is a medical doctor in Melbourne, Australia. She got her medical degree from Monash University in 1999, and in currently based at Austin Health. She is training in General Surgery through the Royal Australian College of Surgeons. Cris is participating in the Surgeon Scientist program, and is currently a PhD student at the University of Melbourne. She has published multiple scientific journal articles on pancreatitis and surgical skills.
Cris is married to Luke, who works at Sitepoint. She has two wonderful children. She is an active participant in many online communities, and blogs regularly as DrCris.
Cris says:
Over my time as a doctor, I have enjoyed working with lots of great patients, many of whom have had cancer, or long-term diseases. I found that patients with long-term (or chronic) diseases tend to have themselves better set up, and have much more control over their healthcare. I think this is because they know the system, and have taken responsibility for making the best of their experience. Casual users of the healthcare system can end up being disappointed and their health suffers. I reckon that consumers who better understand the system and tactics to use it, can end up with much better outcomes. And this is not about fighting doctors - patients who are happy and feel in control are much easier to deal with, so everyone wins.
“Patient” is another word for “Healthcare Consumer”. They have the right to access the health care they want. Someone is paying for it, and they should get their money’s worth!
DISCLAIMER: The advice presented on this website is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Find a good doctor and go and see them!