This study shows that improved medical treatment depends on three essential elements related to consumer education: 1) doctors working with patients, 2) patients taking an active role in their treatment, and 3) doctors understanding consumer-education related aspects of healthcare. In a climate of increased malpractice, negligence, and lawsuits arising from substandard care, doctors must recognize the common humanity they share with patients. To achieve these goals, the author proposes an academic course of study in consumer healthcare education.
