Dr. Sheldon Greenfield, a renowned researcher, passed away on Feb. 26 at the age of 86 in Newport Beach, Calif. He was known for his groundbreaking work that highlighted disparities in cancer treatment among older patients and the benefits of patients actively engaging in their medical consultations. His daughter Lauren Greenfield confirmed that he died from colon cancer.
Dr. Greenfield founded and directed the Center for Health Policy Research at the University of California, Irvine, and was a key figure in the Medical Outcomes Study. This study revealed in 1986 that unnecessary tests and specialist referrals were common practices by physicians, resulting in suboptimal care for patients.
He was praised by Alan M. Garber, the president of Harvard University, as a significant figure in health care research with far-reaching influence.
In a study from 1991, Dr. Greenfield and his team, including his wife Dr. Sherrie Kaplan, emphasized the importance of patient involvement in medical consultations. They recommended pre-consultation coaching sessions to empower patients to take an active role in their care.
Dr. Greenfield’s research demonstrated that patient-centered interactions with doctors led to improved outcomes, particularly in chronic conditions like diabetes, ulcers, and hypertension.
His work shed light on disparities in cancer care for older patients and underscored the necessity of follow-up care beyond initial treatments for cancer patients.
Dr. Greenfield’s research highlighted gaps in cancer treatment based on age, particularly for prostate and breast cancer patients. He also raised concerns about the lack of proper follow-up care for cancer survivors.
His collaborative work with Dr. Kaplan focused on improving doctor-patient relationships and how they impact chronic illness outcomes. Dr. Harold C. Sox praised their efforts in emphasizing the importance of strong partnerships between doctors and patients.
Dr. Greenfield’s research underscored the significance of primary care and highlighted the comparable outcomes between health maintenance organizations and traditional medical practices, despite cost differences.
He also advocated for stricter approval processes for medical devices, leading to improved safety standards for devices like hip implants and heart defibrillators.
Dr. Greenfield’s career path was influenced by his upbringing and early medical experiences, leading him to focus on improving patient care and outcomes. His work spanned various institutions, including U.C.L.A., Tufts, and Harvard School of Public Health.
Throughout his career, Dr. Greenfield emphasized the importance of patient-centered care and the need for accessible medical services. His legacy lives on through his family and the impactful work he did in the field of health care research.
Dr. Greenfield’s dedication to improving patient care and outcomes leaves a lasting impact on the medical community. His work continues to influence the way we approach health care and the importance of patient involvement in decision-making.