Doctors and Placebos

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/23/health/23placebo.html

The above article discusses a recent survey that says that over half of American doctors prescribe placebos to their patients. These placebos vary from headache medicine to vitamin pills to antibiotics and sedatives. I am not sure I would call a sedative or an antibiotic a placebo. However, the point is they are giving their patient something.

The article goes on to, in my opinion, castigate the doctors. I see it differently. We should know our bodies, but we are a "microwave nation", always wanting the quick fix. I have absolutely no issue with a doctor giving a person a vitamin in order to help them help themselve. I am more disgusted that the individual thinks they need a pill to get well.

So what are your opinions? Is the doctor at fault for giving them something or is the patient at fault for wanting a pill to get better.