'One doctor told me I was making myself feel pain': What happens when autoimmune disorders are misdiagnosed a 'psychosomatic'
Researchers discuss the lasting impact that being disbelieved by doctors can have on patients.
Melanie Sloan
Head of Long-Term Conditions Research Group, Primary Care Unit, Cambridge, University of Cambridge
Melanie Sloan has been a researcher at the UK Department of Public Health for 14 years. Her research interests involve improving relationships between clinicians and patients and designing and trialling interventions to improve the lives of patients with systemic autoimmune diseases. Her research has generated significant media interest, with one study reported on the front page of The Times, and has been described by patients as “life-changing” in highlighting that they are not alone in experiencing these symptoms and medical experiences.
