Tagged as: Access Sports Medicine & Orthopaedics| orthopaedics
At Access Sports Medicine, we know how frustrating and overwhelming it can be to sort through conflicting health information. That’s why we’re committed to providing clear, trustworthy guidance to help you make confident decisions about your health.
We’re excited to share some big news! Two of our experts, Michael Smith, PA-C, and Dr. Chelsea Backer recently co-authored a chapter called “Battling Misinformation” in the groundbreaking textbook “Digital Health Telemedicine and Beyond”, released in November 2024. This is a proud moment for our team and reflects our dedication to delivering top-notch care and sharing knowledge to improve healthcare for everyone.
What Is the Chapter About?
Misinformation spreads quickly nowadays, especially online, making it difficult for patients to know what to believe. In their chapter, Michael Smith and Dr. Backer tackle this issue head-on. They share practical advice for healthcare providers on how to rebuild trust with patients and create open, honest communication.
They also emphasize an important message for patients: It’s okay to ask questions. Whether you’re uncertain about a diagnosis, treatment plan, or something you read online, getting clarification is a key step to feeling confident about your care.
How It All Started
In April 2023, Michael was invited by the book’s editor, Dipu Patel, PA-C, to write a chapter. He saw this as a chance to address one of healthcare’s most pressing challenges: the rapid spread of misinformation. He teamed up with Dr. Backer, and together, they created a resource aimed at helping both providers and patients navigate this complex issue.
Why Misinformation Matters
The COVID-19 pandemic taught us all a tough lesson: not all information is accurate, and staying flexible as new evidence emerges is crucial. For healthcare providers, evaluating and adapting to new information isn’t just important—it’s lifesaving. For patients, trusting the right sources and knowing when to ask questions can make all the difference in their health journey.
“Misinformation can really complicate the care process,” Michael explains. “Not all sources are credible, and knowing how to check their reliability is essential.”
A Healthier, More Informed Future
Misinformation is one of the biggest challenges in healthcare today, but it’s one we’re actively working to overcome. Thanks to Michael Smith and Dr. Backer, providers now have tools and strategies to tackle this issue while maintaining empathy and trust with their patients.
At Access Sports Medicine, we believe knowledge is power. By sharing their expertise, our team is helping create a future where patients feel confident and supported in their decisions.
We’re Here for You
If you ever have questions about your treatment or want to double-check something you’ve read online, we’re here to help. At Access Sports Medicine, your care is our priority, and we’re committed to guiding you every step of the way. Contact us today to get the information and support you need!