Ep 14. Bad Medicine

America: Facts vs. Fiction season 5 episode 14 titled "Bad Medicine" presents intriguing facts and stories about medical practices in the United States. The episode delves into the history of healthcare in America, uncovering some facts that are unknown to most people.

The episode begins by examining the humble beginnings of medical practices in the United States, back when doctors were self-taught and practiced medicine without formal training. Viewers will learn about the first-ever hospital in America, which was established in Philadelphia in the 1700s. The hospital lacked proper facilities, and patients shared beds, leading to widespread disease and infections.

The show then moves on to discuss how medical practices have changed over the years, and the advancements that have been made. But it's not all sunshine and roses, as the episode sheds light on some dark parts of medical history in the country.

One of the stories the episode explores is that of J. Marion Sims. Sims is known as the father of modern gynecology, having developed several surgical techniques that improved the health of women. However, the show takes a closer look at his methods and reveals that he experimented on enslaved women without anesthesia, leading to excruciating pain and sometimes death. The episode delves into the ethical concerns that surround this part of medical history.

The episode also discusses the use of enslaved people in medical experiments. It is no secret that most significant medical discoveries came from experimentation on people who had no ability to consent. America: Facts vs. Fiction sheds light on how enslaved Africans were used for medical research, including the case of James Marion Sims. It's a difficult and uncomfortable conversation to have, but one that is necessary for understanding the history of medicine in America.

Another story featured in the episode is that of quackery - the promotion of fake medical treatments for financial gain. Viewers will learn about Dr. John Brinkley, who achieved fame and fortune in the early 20th century, promising to cure impotence through the use of goat testicle transplants. Brinkley's methods were exposed as a hoax, but not before he had made millions and built himself a radio station.

Finally, the episode explores the story of Mary Mallon, better known as Typhoid Mary. Mallon was a cook who was an asymptomatic carrier of typhoid fever, infecting dozens of people she cooked for. The story raises questions about ethics, personal freedom, and public health. After being identified, Mallon was confined to isolation for nearly three decades, despite being healthy and without symptoms. The episode delves into the legal and ethical considerations of Mallon's case.

Overall, America: Facts vs. Fiction season 5 episode 14 "Bad Medicine" presents a deep dive into the fascinating and complicated history of medicine in America. While some of the stories are uncomfortable to confront, they are necessary for understanding how medical practices have evolved over the years and how far we still have to go. This episode is an excellent opportunity for viewers to learn about the dark and little-known parts of America's medical past.