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I’d add two other types of technology that should be avoided: 3. Technology that doesn’t increase quality and 4. Technology that causes harm (both of these irrespective of financial cost). Bring on the randomized controlled trials!

I believe that any discussion about the role of technology in medicine must include the impact the promise of technolgy to “cure” has on the peceived responsibility of the individual to manage and maintain their health. If I know gastric bypass is available will I be less likely to adhere to a diet and exercise plan? If I know Lipitor is available will I be less likely to manage my cholesterol with lifestyle changes? Unfortunately, I have seen many examples that support the notion that a belief in technolgy to cure reduces the responsibility one takes in managing their health. Considering the estimates that 60-70% of diseases are preventable with lifestyle changes it seems like the easiest way to save health care dollars is to just stay healthy.

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