As more Texans rely on the Internet and television for health information, it’s important to distinguish between helpful resources and misleading lawsuit advertising. Many ads attempt to shape consumers’ decisions, steering them away from doctors and toward questionable lawsuits.
Two pieces of legislation (Senate Bill 1189 and House Bill 2251) have been introduced in Texas that would protect patients by requiring advertisements to properly warn patients that it is dangerous to stop taking a prescribed medication before consulting with a physician. The legislation would not limit or ban drug-injury advertisements. It simply would protect vulnerable populations by ensuring they have the information necessary to make the best decisions for their health regarding prescription drug use.
Dr. Christine Canterbury, MD, said of these legislative proposals: “Patient safety depends on truth in advertising when talking about treatment regimens. When advertisements cause patients to doubt the recommendations of their physicians and discontinue use of their prescribed medications, the consequences can be very serious.”
Consumers with questions about their medical care and health should ask their doctor, not a personal injury lawyer. Additionally, patients should be wary of any attempt by a personal injury lawyer to steer them to a specific doctor. The bottom line: Don’t Let a Lawyer Be Your Doctor!
