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Perspectives

Second Opinions

Essays and opinions from our readers, always thought-provoking, sometimes controversial

Second Opinions
What Will it Take to Achieve Better Health in a Divided America?

Bridging the political and ideological divide is key to productive healthcare policy

January 9, 2025
A photo of the White House after snow.
Second Opinions
Economic 'Shrinkflation' Strikes Healthcare

It's high time to address workplace issues and workforce shortages

January 8, 2025
A photo of a nurse pushing a patient on a gurney down a hospital hallway.
Second Opinions
Bodies Into Other Bodies

A patient's perspective on transplantation and time

January 7, 2025
A photo of a surgeon holding a kidney for transplant.
Second Opinions
How AI Could Help Solve the Global Blood Shortage Crisis

"Blood deserts" can benefit from high-tech solutions

January 7, 2025
A photo of a blood donation bus.
Second Opinions
Don't Be a Jerk in a Donor OR

It is a privilege to work as a guest in another facility

January 5, 2025
A photo of surgeons working head to head in the operating room.
Second Opinions
Keep Quality Measures Out of the Exam Room

Patients need space to raise real issues or concerns

January 4, 2025
A photo of an examination room in a clinic.
Second Opinions
Will the Trump Administration Be a Dangerous Ally to the Wellness Industry?

Several nominees may pose a threat to evidence-based public health

January 3, 2025
A photo of Mehmet Oz, MD.
Second Opinions
What Harvey Weinstein's Lawsuit Reminds Us About Healthcare Behind Bars

The harm done to sick people in local jails serves no one well

December 29, 2024
A photo of the Rikers Island prison complex.
Second Opinions
CMS Moved to Expand Obesity Drug Coverage. Private Insurers Need to Step Up.

GLP-1 drugs remain out of reach for too many Americans

December 28, 2024
A computer rendering of a box of semaglutide injection pens.
Second Opinions
King and Firefighter Syndrome: Disaster Response Goes Beyond the Front Lines

It's important to recognize diverse contributions and roles during a crisis

December 23, 2024
A photo of people carrying cases of bottled water across train tracks in Western North Carolina.
Second Opinions
From Book Burnings to Data Deletions: Safeguarding Health Info in the Digital Age

The Trump administration's removal of environmental info doesn't bode well for his second term

December 21, 2024
A computer rendering of files flying from a folder, getting shredded, and falling into a trash can.
Second Opinions
A Thin Shred of My Sanity Remained. Then I Hit My Breaking Point.

Clinicians need to know they're not alone in their mental health struggles

December 20, 2024
A photo of Sarah DeParis, MD.
Second Opinions
The 2024 Election Should Remind Us of the Value of Listening to Our Patients

Establishing trust makes our work more meaningful and effective

December 18, 2024
A photo of the gesticulating hands of a female patient who is speaking to her male physician.
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