American's generally believe ourselves to be a science based culture. Often arguing about whose science is better at supporting their side of proposed regulatory or legislative change. Persuading us which product to buy or treatment to have prescribed.

This round of writing I have noticed fewer full research articles are available. Abstracts do not provide enough information to evaluate the quality of the research.

At times I may sound anti-drug treatment. I fully support taking medication if it is for the five rights: right reason, right dose, right response, right length of time and right monitoring. These criteria should be used for all prescriptions, over the counter drugs and supplements and evaluated periodically.

Self-care is growing in importance once again as our healthcare system is becoming less accessible to many citizens. From the early 1900's to about 30 years ago access limits were often due to physical location of practitioners and medical facilities. Most of us are now within a few miles of some type of medical care availability and cost has become driving factor limiting medical care.

Awareness is growing that the business of health care and individual health desires are not working towards the same goals. This past week health related issues have been included in a diary or discussion nearly every day.