What is the blog “Enemy Held Territory – Today’s operating rooms” about?

The blog “Enemy Held Territory – Today’s operating rooms” focuses on the medical and legal issues experienced by Michael Stuart, a former United States Air Force officer, following a failed back surgery. The blog aims to expose the systemic issue of “Deny and Defend” in healthcare, where institutions prioritize self-protection over patient care and accountability.

Here are the key themes and purposes of the blog:

Documenting a Personal Journey: The blog details Stuart’s harrowing experience with medical negligence, including three surgeries and a thousand days of agony due to the initial botched spinal fusion and the subsequent inadequate care from the Veterans Affairs (VA).
Advocating for Systemic Change: Stuart seeks to raise awareness about the failures of the VA healthcare system, particularly the “Deny and Defend” culture, to prevent similar injustices from happening to other veterans.
Empowering Patients: The blog provides resources and guidance to help veterans navigate the complexities of the VA Community Care Program, including obtaining expert medical opinions, seeking second opinions, understanding imaging studies, and creating 3D models of their spines.
Providing Educational Information: The blog offers comprehensive information about spinal surgery, including an overview of spinal anatomy, types of procedures, the recovery process, and long-term adaptation strategies.
Sharing Resources and Support: The blog directs readers to educational websites, support communities, and specific tools that can assist with pain management, understanding medical reports, and strengthening VA claims.

Overall, the blog serves as a platform to expose medical negligence, advocate for veterans’ rights, empower patients to take control of their healthcare, and provide valuable information and resources to those facing similar challenges.