A doctor has taken to TikTok to explain why GPs sometimes use Google during appointments – and it turns out it’s not for the reason patients might seem to think
Doctor’s appointments can often be a nerve-wracking experience, especially when you’re feeling unwell and unsure about what’s wrong.
Thankfully, it’s the GP’s role to help alleviate your concerns. However, one doctor revealed a common practice that tends to baffle patients – turning to Google for advice.
But, according to Doctor Shireen, a popular TikTok user known for her medical advice, there’s no need for alarm. In a recent candid video, she confessed that GPs sometimes require the assistance of the internet for a very crucial reason.
She addressed the most frequently asked question by her patients – why do doctors use Google during their appointments? The answer is much simpler than you might imagine – and it’s not because they’re uncertain about your condition.
Doctor Shireen explained: “Let me tell you guys something. Google’s a search engine – there’s a lot of information there for patients, for parents, for GPs – we are not all going on the same pages.
“Your GP isn’t going on patient.info, or on the NHS website, to find out what could be causing this rash or what could be causing weight loss. We know all of that already.
“One of the most common things I go on Google for during a consultation is the BNF, so that’s the British National Formulary. That’s our bible when it comes to medications and dosages.
“There are thousands of medications out there we don’t know the doses off the top of our head for the really common things, like a lot of antibiotics and, you know, blood pressure medicines.”
Often, she explained, they just need to double check the doses, and it’s crucial they do this to ensure patients receive the correct treatment. In the past, Doctor Shireen said the updated BNF would be sent to them every few months, but this no longer happens.
This is because it’s more sustainable for it to be available online for doctors to access. The only catch is, it can only be viewed via Google. The doctor pointed out this is also true for other medical guidelines aimed at GPs. If you see your doctor using Google, she reassured there’s no cause for alarm.
It doesn’t mean they’re clueless about your condition. Instead, they are searching for vital information needed to treat you properly. Since the doctor posted the video, it received hundreds of likes, and people were quick to comment and share their thoughts.
One person commented: “Yeah the BNF/green book or SPC. I feel I have to explain myself when I go on Google.” Another responded: “Well explained.” A third also remarked: “Thanks for clarifying. That practice doesn’t inspire confidence.”
