Expert: MGR - 8/30/2009

Question
1. Is MD highest?
2. How realiable is expert opinion say from 0 to 100%.  What is the ranges?

Answer
Hi Henry,

An MD is a medical doctor who has attended 4 years of college and 4 years of medical school.  (Usually MDs go on to complete a residency in a certain area, and sometimes a fellowship).  

A Ph.D is a "doctor of philosophy" - something that generally takes 4 years of college and 6 years of graduate school to complete (although that varies).

But having these initials fter your name does not make you "smarter" than someone else, nor does it necessarily mean that you know more than someone in a given area.  Generally you can trust that an MD knows more than the average person about medicine, but I have met many very bright people who know more than the typical MD.

The reliability of an "expert opinion" also depends on the question, the expert, etc.   In the case of allexperts, the "experts" are realistically just giving you advice.  Unfortunately, you need to look at their background, other questions they've answered, as well as whether or not the advice just seems right.  I wish I could give you a % answer, but it's impossible!  Without knowing the question or question area, it makes it even harder!

Let me know if I can be of more help,
Marnie