
21. Outdated equipment in the modern world.
“I’ll let you in on a little-known secret among docs: The stethoscope is largely an outdated instrument with very low sensitivity and specificity for most pathologies. It only remains because patients expect it. It basically has zero utility for a new patient without symptoms (non-emergent exam). If someone has difficulty breathing, do you think it matters what the stethoscope sounds like? You’re still going to get an X-ray and/or treat.” PacoTacoMeat brings up some interesting insider knowledge. You could ask your own doctor about this on your next visit! They continue:
“If someone is having chest symptoms or an abnormal pulse, do you think the stethoscope will dictate whether a CXR, CT, EKG, and/or echo are ordered? No one other than a cardiologist is going to diagnose any cardiac abnormality, and even they are going to order one or more of the tests above. Basically, no relevant diagnosis or clinical decision-making is made with a stethoscope nowadays. The only place the stethoscope has a small use is in the emergent setting and/or where there’s no modern technology from the last 100 years available.”