Health and Illness in the Community: An Oxford Core Text
Next week sees the publication of a new text book for medical students, Health and Illness in the Community. The book has been edited by two GPs and a Medical Sociologist from the University of Aberdeen's Medical School. Contributions to the textbook have also come from the University of Dundee, Glasgow Caledonian University, and NHS staff in Grampian.
In line with major changes in medical education over the last decade, Health and Illness in the Community stresses the importance of the community and the health of the population which play an integral part in becoming a good doctor. It is generally recognised that the effectiveness of clinical decisions made for each patient is increased if the doctor takes into account the patient's family and community setting. Equally, the impact of these decisions is mediated through the environmental, economic and political conditions of the day.
Speaking in advance of the publication of the book, Dr Edwin van Teijlingen, Senior Lecturer in Public Health and Medical Sociologist, at Aberdeen, said: "It is anticipated that this book will be of direct relevance to students at medical schools throughout the UK, and also in Ireland. Community medicine is an expanding field that requires a dedicated textbook."
Taking health and normality as a starting point, the book considers the environmental and social factors which influence the health of a community, discussing the nature, distribution and determinants of illness. Students need a solid understanding of medicine in the community encompassing elements of public health, general practice, child health, geriatrics, mental health, psychology and sociology, and this book provides the material required.
The book is part of the OXFORD CORE TEXTS and the University is proud to be involved in this prestigious series.