“Sorry I know I shouldn’t Google but...” “I know you probably will say not to do it but I did have a look online...” “Don’t tell me off but I searched online...” I hear these phrases or something along similar lines pretty often as a GP! “Dr Google” can get a fair bit of bashing but I have to say that I don’t hate it...! This is why ➡️➡️➡️ Whilst one of my main jobs as a GP is to try and figure out what could be causing certain symptoms, another important aspect is addressing your worries as a patient. Even if I come up with a diagnosis and advise on the right treatment, all of this can be cancelled out if you’re worried about something and we haven’t talked about it. Yes Dr G can throw up lots of misinformation and scary conditions BUT if I know what you’ve read and what you’re worried about, we can work through that together. I can explain, give you my professional opinion and discuss if I’m concerned at all. A huge caveat would be that you need to know where to go to find the right information and Dr G probably shouldn’t be the final step. If you’re worried about something after reading a trusted resource then please speak to your GP about it! Some of these include: nhs website @patientuk @royalcollegeobsandgynae www.medicinesinpregnancy.org.uk Do you do use a bit of Dr Google? Do you find it helpful or more worrying?? #generalpractice #generalpractitioner #doctorgoogle #drgoogle #familymedicine