Book Review: “YOU: The Smart Patient: An Insider’s Handbook for Getting the Best Treatment,” by Michael F. Roizen and Mehmet C. Oz

I picked up the book “YOU: The Smart Patient: An Insider’s Handbook for Getting the Best Treatment,” by Michael F. Roizen and Mehmet C. Oz up a few years ago, not knowing that soon “Dr. Oz” and his cheery advice, even when discussing the most personal of issues, would become the next “hot topic” on Oprah. Seeing his likable personality has only made the book more enjoyable.

And that’s why my review of this book is so complimentary. How can a book that includes worst case medical scenarios, medical jargon, list of health resources, and surgery preparation tips be considered enjoyable?

To begin with, the book is jam-packed full of information that we all need, but don’t want to curl up with and read. So this information is given to the reader in small doses with imaginative layouts. Amusing clipart and cartoons, tip boxes, a resource portion and the offbeat humor throughout all the content actually entertains the reader.

It’s obvious that the book was well thought out and intentionally written for the average person to be able to use as a real tool in caring for his health. A reader may feel that it’s the feeling of their favorite consumer magazine, rather than a typical doctor’s dry medical journal.

The true value of the book isn’t reflected merely in the imaginative pages, however, but with the truly superb content. The authors of “YOU: The Smart Patient” reinforce the need for the reader to be a “medical detective.” By taking a second look at one’s family tree and keeping track of medical information in the journal in the back of the book, the reader is give not just suggestions, but a workbook.

It’s written in conjunction with The Joint Commission, the health care community’s leading oversight group, so there is no bias in the authors’ advice.

“YOU: The Smart Patient” is also packed with great checklists for you or whoever who may accompany you on medical visits or hospital stays. It provides clear-cut reminders, like how to confirm with your surgeon which body part is being treated, what medications you have an allergy to, and how to verify that your prescription drugs are the accurate, since so many medications sound alike.

It goes on to advise one on how to find the right doctor, hospital, and insurance company, how to work with specialists, be your nurse’s favorite patient, choose alternative medicine and pain management. It even explains a doctor’s typical schedule and why they may seem so tired at times.

I give “YOU: The Smart Patient” five stars! It’s the best money you will spend in effectively managing their healthcare, especially if you live with a chronic illness!