Multiple medical diagnoses, world wide, are having their healthcare being impacted by mental disorder diagnosis's.

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, has had media attention over the years of having misdiagnosis or care hindered based on a mental disorder diagnosis.
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, and many other complex and chronic invisible conditions are impacted by these Somatic Disorders.

Regardless of any mental disorders, every single person has the right to adequate and timely healthcare.

Currently the disparity between the idealised vision of patient-centric healthcare and the reality experienced within modern healthcare systems is of a significant concern. The romanticised ideal envisions a healthcare system that prioritizes patient well-being, with attentive, knowledgeable and comprehensive care and investigation at its core.

The somatic disorder pathways in the DSM are regrettably viewed by some as a convenient escape route for grappling with intricate medical conditions. Rather than delving into thorough investigations and seeking expert opinions, certain medical professionals may opt to label a condition as somatic, using it as a scapegoat. This tendency may stem from a fear of acknowledging their own limitations or a perceived sense of superiority—a sort of god complex within the medical community.

This behavior can manifest as a hesitancy to consult with knowledgeable colleagues or specialists. The fear of appearing inadequate or lacking expertise can deter medical professionals from reaching out for assistance or seeking a second opinion. This aversion to collaboration and consultation can impede accurate diagnoses and appropriate treatment plans for patients, potentially leading to prolonged suffering and dissatisfaction within the healthcare system.

This all comes at the consumers cost, physically, mentally and financially, and impedes their consumer and human rights.

This petition is to emphasis and request changes to the current somatic disorders criteria and classifications.

The proposed alterations include that the diagnostic criteria for somatic disorders is a proactive step toward improving the current healthcare system and ensuring that the best interests of consumers are at the forefront. By mandating consultation with a range of specialists for consumer review, this approach aims to enhance accuracy in diagnosis and foster a more comprehensive understanding of complex medical conditions.

By incorporating a diverse set of specialists and encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration, this proposed criterion can mitigate the risk of misdiagnosis and ensure that consumers receive a more accurate and holistic assessment of their health concerns. It promotes a patient-centered approach, upholds consumer rights, and contributes to an improved healthcare system that prioritizes the well-being of the individuals it serves.

There also needs to be a pathway for review, as currently these disorders tend to stick with a consumer for the rest of their lives, resulting in further hesitancy to provide consumers with adequate healthcare.


Please sign your support for this cause and a review of somatic disorders ASAP in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) within the American Pyschological association (APA) needed.


Cite  : https://www.psychdb.com/somatic/dsm-5/home

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Any google search on munchausens or factitious disorder will bring articles. I'd like to highlight this one of my dear friend: 

https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/australasia/ehlers-danlos-steph-aston-genetic-illness-b2410222.html
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/kiwi-with-disease-cannot-get-treatment-doctors-say-shes-faking-her-symptoms/ASCJXDPLDDWHYSIQH6HOACUPGQ/?c_id=1&objectid=12133645

In 2018 a series of articles were done by NZ Herald. 3/5 people in this series have passed in the last 6 months.
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/kiwi-with-disease-cannot-get-treatment-doctors-say-shes-faking-her-symptoms/ASCJXDPLDDWHYSIQH6HOACUPGQ/