Avoiding the Derm? Here’s the Real Cost of Letting Fear Lead
Why do so many of us avoid going to the doctor—even when we know we shouldn’t? In this episode, Dr. Mina sits down with Dr. Manju Dawkins to unpack the deeply human fear that keeps patients away from the care they need. From needle phobia to fear of diagnosis, this conversation dives into the emotional blocks that sabotage our health and skin wellness. Together, they explore how to replace avoidance with empowerment, creating safer, more compassionate healthcare spaces. Dr. Dawkins shares data, clinical insights, and thoughtful approaches to addressing patient fear—helping listeners understand what’s really behind the hesitation and how providers and patients alike can better navigate it.
key takeaways
- Fear of doctors is common and layered—often rooted in pain, past trauma, or fear of diagnosis.
- Over 60% of adults now report needle fear, up dramatically from past decades.
- Creating space in the exam room for vulnerability leads to better healthcare outcomes.
- The traditional “paternalistic” model of medicine is outdated; patient autonomy and understanding are now key.
- Transparency in healthcare—like doctors on social media—can reduce anxiety and increase trust.
- Addressing fear can improve everything from skin health to early diagnosis and treatment of serious conditions.
