Complexity theory is a collection of concepts ideas and perspectives developed largely in fields outside medicine. It allows us to study health care delivery using the metaphor of an ecosystem rather than a machine. This timely book explores the ways complexity theory may assist in the provision of clinical healthcare. It explains the foundations of the theory behind complexity its place in clinical medicine and in the wider scientific context using examples of its application in current and potential future medical scenarios. Drawing on insights from diverse areas including ecology evolutionary theory and computer science itit demonstrates the relevance of complexity to cardiology diabetes and mental health to consultation dynamics and decision support and to the delivery of other aspects of care through more informed use of health informatics. The increasingly complex arena of clinical medicine requires new models on which to manage uncertainty recognise and value diversity and process information. All clinicians and managers in primary and secondary care will find this book useful and engaging reading. 'The fashionable drive for a narrowly defined evidence-based practice is likely to accelerate trends which many of us fear: a retreat from clinical intuition to defensive documentation; from acumen to investigation; from values-based policy to techno-managerialism. The ideas addressed in this book written by those who are pioneering the application of complexity theory to clinical practice appear to provide a science-based and rigorous defence against the simplistic thinking which has impelled such dangerous trends. This is an important book it is timely and it is to be welcomed' Marshall Marinker in the Foreword

The new edition of Dermatological Signs of Systemic Disease helps you identify a full range of common and rare systemic diseases early on so they can be managed as effectively as possible. Formerly titled Dermatological Signs of Internal Disease, it takes an evidence-based approach to diagnosis and treatment, offering dependable clinical recommendations that enable you to attain definitive diagnoses of internal diseases that manifest on the skin. Allows you to attain definitive diagnoses of internal diseases that manifest on the skin. Uses a consistent, user-friendly format for easy reference. Expert Consult eBook version included with purchase. This enhanced eBook experience allows you to search all of the text, figures, images, and references from the book on a variety of devices. Covers hot topics such as lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, autoinflammatory diseases, eosinophilic and neutrophilic dermatoses, and psoriasis therapies and co-morbidities. Highlights newer therapies and treatment options for most diseases. Includes over 500 full-color illustrations - 200 new to this edition - that provide the best possible representations of diseases as they appear in the clinic. Features more viewpoints from an expanded team of nationally recognized experts in their respective fields.

'When I want to know the real rock-bottom truth about what happens all the time in this doctoring life what happens to us and to the folks who bring us their hearts and worries to be heard that's when I turn every time to the novelists the playwrights the poets the essayists who have given us the sights and sounds the feel of all that goes on minute by minute. What Tolstoy and Chekhov knew we need to know for ourselves for our own sakes as we live out our medical lives.' William Carlos Williams 'The most fundamental of all consulting skills is genuine curiosity about other people the constant urge to wonder 'Why are they as they are?' We should open our minds to the life of the imagination not just for its entertainment value but for the mindset of curiosity it engenders in us. Such books as John Salinsky describes in this and his previous volume combine powerful opportunities for our own professional growth with pleasure and recreation too.' Roger Neighbour in his Foreword 'This carefully assembled wonderfully telling book is a "companion" for sure a lasting and most helpful one for the medical travelling that awaits us.' Robert Coles in his Foreword

In this valuable new book, a consultant oncologist and a family practitioner have brought together their different and complementary experience of dealing with cancer to provide primary care physicians with all the information they need to meet the demands that will be placed upon them. With input from respected specialists in oncology; surgery and palliative care, it describes each of the major types of cancer in adults and children, with each chapter following an identical format. For each type of cancer, risk factors, epidemiology and demographic data are presented, with comment on diagnostic and screening issues; options for management are then discussed, and choices of therapy reviewed together with their prognostic implications. The concise text is supported by numerous tables, charts and diagrams, with key points summarised in highlighted panels. Each section concludes with up-to-date information on current research and on-going trials, and contact details of specific support groups for patients and their families. Additional chapters cover in more detail major topics such as pain management, terminal illness and provision of palliative care, and dealing with bereavement. Throughout the book, emphasis is placed on understanding the needs of the patient, and the importance of the doctor being able to communicate effectively, and objectively, the implications of the sometimes difficult choices that have to be made. This is a highly readable book packed with useful information and it should find a place in every doctor's office. Input from respected specialists in oncology, surgery and palliative care.

Completely updated and revised, the third edition provides primary care physicians with practice-tested, condition-specific treatment recommendations for various childhood mental disorders. Obtain clear guidance on dosing, monitoring, and potential adverse reactions of psychotropic medications for treatment of common psychiatric disorders and mental health or behavioral problems in children and adolescents. It includes digital tools offering instant access to additional information on psychotropic medications. TOPICS INCLUDE Conceptual framework for prescribing psychotropics Newly approved medications, changes in regulations and guidelines, and updates in the professional literature are included in this new edition Medications for specific diagnoses-ADHD, anxiety, and depression Food and Drug Administration approved antipsychotics and mood stabilizers and all other medications What to do when treatment is unsuccessful

This unique volume teaches those in the medical fields about the scientific value of neuropsychology in assessing cognition, the 6th vital sign, as part of well integrated collaborative care. It offers physicians a comprehensive tour of the many dimensions neuropsychology can add to primary and specialized medical care across the lifespan. Noted experts examine cognitive ramifications of a wide range of medical, psychological, and neuropsychological conditions, among them brain tumors, stroke, epilepsy, pediatric and adult TBI, schizophrenia, and adult ADHD. The book's generous selection of case examples demonstrates the benefits of cognitive assessment in building accurate diagnoses, better understanding of patient needs, and more appropriate treatment and management strategies, as well as other neuropsychologist roles in consulting, referral, and forensic areas. In addition, tables, callout boxes, review questions, and other features are included throughout the text for ease in comprehension and retention. A sampling of the coverage:* The value of neuropsychological evaluation in medical practice. * A model of collaboration between primary care and neuropsychology. * Neuropsychological assessment of extremely preterm children. * Alzheimer's Disease and overview of dementia. * Deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's Disease. * Neuropsychology in the 21st century: the rise of multicultural assessment. * Neuropsychological interventions for individuals with brain injury. The Physician's Field Guide to Neuropsychology is both a rigorous and an accessible reference for clinicians in diverse disciplines including general practice, family medicine, neuropsychology, pediatrics, gerontology, and sports medicine.

The results of computational model simulations allow researchers and clinicians to make predictions about what will happen in the biological systems that are being studied in response to changing conditions for a disease or disorder. With a well-developed computational model, researchers and clinicians can better understand the cause of a disease or a disorder and predict treatment results. Computational Models for Biomedical Reasoning and Problem Solving is a critical scholarly publication that provides insightful strategies to developing computational models that allow for the better understanding and treatment of various diseases and disorders. Featuring topics such as biomedicine, neuroscience, and artificial intelligence, this book is ideal for practitioners, clinicians, researchers, psychologists, and engineers.

Housing is an important determinant of health. This book provides a concise overview of the impact of housing policy and the effect of housing on health. It covers the issues of homelessness and health, collaboration between organizations in delivering housing needs, and focusses on the role of primary care teams as part of the Primary Care Trusts. It should be of interest to all members of primary care organisations, especially those concerned with health and social policy, including clinicians, nurses, psychologists, managers, statutory and voluntary housing organizations, policy makers, shapers and influencers.

With the introduction of yearly appraisals and revalidation every general practitioner needs to be armed with a good Personal Development Plan. This book provides the information needed to create just that. Guiding the reader through the consultation looking for Patient's Unmet Needs (PUNs) and the Doctor's Educational Needs (DENs), it focuses on those learning needs that help to provide competent care for patients. All general practitioners will find this book a straightforward, no nonsense, practical approach to help them incorporate their learning needs into the realities of everyday practice.

Tavistock Press was established as a co-operative venture between the Tavistock Institute and Routledge & Kegan Paul (RKP) in the 1950s to produce a series of major contributions across the social sciences. This volume is part of a 2001 reissue of a selection of those important works which have since gone out of print, or are difficult to locate. Published by Routledge, 112 volumes in total are being brought together under the name The International Behavioural and Social Sciences Library: Classics from the Tavistock Press. Reproduced here in facsimile, this volume was originally published in 1973 and is available individually. The collection is also available in a number of themed mini-sets of between 5 and 13 volumes, or as a complete collection.

Tavistock Press was established as a co-operative venture between the Tavistock Institute and Routledge & Kegan Paul (RKP) in the 1950s to produce a series of major contributions across the social sciences. This volume is part of a 2001 reissue of a selection of those important works which have since gone out of print, or are difficult to locate. Published by Routledge, 112 volumes in total are being brought together under the name The International Behavioural and Social Sciences Library: Classics from the Tavistock Press. Reproduced here in facsimile, this volume was originally published in 1970 and is available individually. The collection is also available in a number of themed mini-sets of between 5 and 13 volumes, or as a complete collection.

Tavistock Press was established as a co-operative venture between the Tavistock Institute and Routledge & Kegan Paul (RKP) in the 1950s to produce a series of major contributions across the social sciences. This volume is part of a 2001 reissue of a selection of those important works which have since gone out of print, or are difficult to locate. Published by Routledge, 112 volumes in total are being brought together under the name The International Behavioural and Social Sciences Library: Classics from the Tavistock Press. Reproduced here in facsimile, this volume was originally published in 1963 and is available individually. The collection is also available in a number of themed mini-sets of between 5 and 13 volumes, or as a complete collection.

There is a growing trend for investigators to adopt a more formal approach to the procedures applied to various stages of clinical trials. Most environments employ some form of standard operating procedures which are designed to be used as ‘working tools’ within that particular field, e.g. standard operating procedures in hospitals for doctors and nurses. With rigorous standards of good clinical practice being applied to all areas, optimizing the design and use of standard operating procedures is more in demand every day. Topics covered include:

• A brief description of the history and development of clinical research and good clinical practice
• An explanation of what standard operating procedures are and how they work
• A selection of actual standard operating procedures and checklists

This book is designed to help develop a GPs skill in disease recognition and treatment. For this reason it approaches the subject from a symptoms-specific rather than a disease-specific angle.
It contains approximately 60 high-quality illustrations and explanatory text. It is ideal for use as an instant reference in day-to-day clinical practice or as part of ongoing CME. It would be ideally suited for those studying for the Diploma in Practical Dermatology

Doing Practitioner Research Differently encourages those embarking on practitioner research to consider the validity of innovative methods and styles of reporting. The book looks at three methods of enquiry and reporting - visualisation, conversation and fictional writing.
Using practitioners' own accounts and research reports as case studies, this book explores the reasons why some practitioners reject the traditional research methods. It looks at the challenges faced by these practitioners and the conditions in higher education that encourage or inhibit innovative practitioner research. The case studies used illustrate that there are modes of enquiry and reporting that can foster the development of professional thinking and practice.

A growing number of people suffer from so-called resistant hypertension, that is to say, high blood pressure that does not respond to treatment. This disorder is of great current interest and importance for public health, being a common clinical problem faced by both primary care clinicians and specialists. Furthermore, as older age and obesity are among the strongest risk factors for uncontrolled hypertension, the incidence of resistant hypertension will likely increase as the population becomes more elderly and heavier. While the prognosis of resistant hypertension is unknown, cardiovascular risk is undoubtedly increased since patients often have a history of long-standing, severe hypertension complicated by multiple other cardiovascular risk factors. This volume, compiled by a panel of world-renowned experts, offers a comprehensive exploration of resistant hypertension, covering epidemiology, complex diagnostic aspects, and the therapeutic options currently available, with due attention to overall treatment strategies. New therapeutic agents and procedures, such as renal denervation and baroreceptor stimulation, are also described. In addition, the book addresses the economic aspects of resistant hypertension and the role of the different professional figures, from GPs to hypertension specialists, in dealing with it.

This unique book is the first to bring together primary care experiences from around the world, with emphasis on non-Western regions. Utilising published articles that profile different countries' primary health care, accompanied by expert commentaries, the book consolidates global primary health care information over the past decade. Profiling the different countries' primary health care systems and their implementation of primary health care policy, as promoted by WHO and WONCA, the guide provides evidence of how countries and regions can introduce primary health care and family practice to improve their health care infrastructure and delivery. The book is essential reading for policy makers, health educators and academic leaders in primary care and students of global health and provides useful background for those entering or established in clinical family practice around the world.

This innovative and timely book draws on pioneering precedents, basic principles, current examples and international experience to capture the narratives, examples and ideas that underlie and demonstrate the exceptional potential of general practice: "If health care is not at is best where it is needed most, health inequalities will widen." "The unworried unwell are not hard to reach but they are easy to ignore and are often ignored." "With patient contact, population coverage, continuity, coordination, flexibility, long term relationships and trust, general practices are the natural hubs of local health systems." "... practitioners ... are not only scientists but also responsible citizens and if they did not raise their voice who else should?" Written for family doctors looking to strengthen local collaboration, it brings together the traditional strengths of consultations, caring, continuity, coordination and coverage with the current and future challenges of building capacity, community, creativity, consistency, collegiality and campaigning. It highlights the critical importance of working with patients, maximising the use of serial encounters, integrating care, joint working between practices, social prescribing, community development and advocacy based on patient and practitioner experience. Drawing on the highly-regarded work of Deep End GPs serving the poorest communities in Scotland www.gla.ac.uk/deepend the book is an invaluable handbook for all primary care doctors, irrespective of health care system or country, seeking to provide unconditional continuity of personalised care for all patients, whatever problem or combination of problems a patient may have.

Translates an American "bible" of family practice for use by Canadian health care student and providers. Written specifically for the needs of family and adult nursing students, medical students, and primary care practitioners in Canada, this "bible" of family practice in America-named a 2013 Doody's core title-now provides current Canadian practice protocols for professional standards of care across the lifespan. Guidelines are delivered in user-friendly, step-by-step instructional style for physical exams and diagnostic testing results in SI units; health maintenance recommendations approved by Health Canada; care guidelines including Canadian drug names and dietary information; information on culturally responsive care; and patient resources specific to Canada. Practice guidelines are organized primarily by body system, consistently delivered in outline format for quick and easy access. Each of more than 280 disorder protocols includes definition, incidence, pathogenesis, predisposing factors, common complaints, other signs and symptoms, subjective data, PE, diagnostic texts, differential diagnoses, plan, follow-up, consultation/referral, and individual considerations. Of particular value are "Practice Pointers" highlighting vital information for each disorder and specialty care points for lifespan populations. Also included are 18 Basic Procedure Guidelines for use in the clinical setting and 138 Patient Teaching Sheets in print and PDF version. Additionally, Patient Teaching Guides are available for customization and downloading. Abundant references are specific to the Canadian health care system. Key Features: Translates an American "bible" of family practice for the specific needs of Canadian students and practitioners Presents over 280 disorders guidelines in consistent outline format Provides Canadian routine health maintenance guidelines, vaccinations, and screening for HIV and HepC Highlights critical care points with "Practice Pointers" Covers individual care considerations for pediatric, pregnant, and geriatric patients Offers 138 Patient Teaching Sheets in digital format for patient take home Delivers 18 procedure guidelines including those for special diets, normal lab values in SI units, and teeth Purchase includes access to the ebook for use on most mobile devices or computers

This inspirational text will appeal to those both starting research projects and those wanting to understand how research can be used in everyday working practice. It brings together expertise from a wide range of areas and makes research easy and accessible. The practical workbook style is easy to use and shows the whole process from design to dissemination and application. Those working in primary healthcare teams and the new organisations supporting them will find it essential reading. Primary Care Research series is aimed at developing the knowledge, expertise and skills of all practitioners in primary care. Each book is based on contributions from experts in their field and is supported by practical facts, personal insight, support and advice. They enable all primary care practitioners to realise the potential of exploring information used in everyday working practice. Other books in the Primary Care Research series: Wilson: Research Approaches in Primary Care Mathers: Statistical Analysis in Primary Care

Full Contributors:
Gavin Andrews, University of New South Wales, Australia Jesus Artal, University Hospital 'Marques de Valdecilla', Spain J.F. William,University of Manchester, UK F.W. Deakin, University of Manchester, UK Peter de Jong, University of Groningen, The Netherlands Linda Gask, University of Manchester, UK Kevin Gournay, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK Scott Henderson, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia Andrès Herran, University Hospital 'Marques de Valdecilla', Spain Caroline Hunt, University of New South Wales, Australia Peter Huxley,University of Manchester, UK Rachel Jenkins, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK Glyn Lewis, University of Wales College of Medicine, UK Elizabeth Lin Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Seattle, USA Ita Lyons, University of Wales College of Medicine, UK Anthony Mann, Institute of Psychiatry, UK Malik Mubbashar, Rawalpindi General Hospital, Pakistan Hans Ormel, University of Groningen, The Netherlands Norman Sartorius, Hopitaux Universitaires de Genève, Switzerland Deborah Sharp, University of Bristol, UK Greg Simon, University of Washington, USA Michele Tansella, Università di Verona, Italy Graham Thornicroft, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK André Tylee, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK Josè Luis Vazquez-Barquero, University Hospital 'Marques de Valdecilla', Spain ^Michael Von Korff, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Seattle, USA

Skin lesions are often the first sign for an endocrine disease. Their description is thus of relevance for early diagnosis and treatment of endocrine disease for specialists in endocrinology as well as in dermatology.

Lavishly illustrated, this book describes the clinical and histological features of skin lesions observed in endocrine diseases. All features are reader-friendly structured and written in the language of dermatologists in order to enable a simple association between the features observed and the endocrine etiology.

Information is a key resource to primary health care and is increasingly required in individual practices. This book will demystify the subject, which is often presented in complex terms. It sets out in a simple and interesting way what information those working in primary care will need, the systems required to deliver them and how to set them up. Information and IT for Primary Care uses exercises, stories, key points, case studies, model answers and think boxes. Worldwide web links refers the reader to resources and shows how to get the most out of your computer. The book is user-friendly, jargon free and based on primary research evidence. It is essential reading for everyone working in primary care organisations including GPs, practice managers and nurses, and staff working in community trusts and the NHS.

Survival Skills for GPs is an in-depth interactive personal coaching course that: * Shows how you can survive the rigours of general practice * Teaches you how to stay in control of your professional life * Helps you learn to enjoy your career as a GP again * Gives you the confidence and skills to develop your career The first personal coaching course for GPs presented as an interactive workbook, which allows individual GPs, to progress from any stress in their lives through to job satisfaction and career development. It is applicable to all areas of life and shows comparisons to how other GPs' are doing. Survival is not only about learning to cope with the changing circumstances of being a GP, but how to flourish and enjoy work and life in general. This practical workbook takes the reader on a path from becoming more aware of the causes of stress, the effects and reactions to stress, through to looking at positive solutions and ideas. Survival skills for GPs is a specific programme written by a GP for GPs, which has evolved from the RCGP Stress Fellowship Learning Programme. It comprises six stand alone chapters which introduce stress management in both personal and professional lives. With in-depth practical ideas it can be used by individuals or small groups as an informal resource, or for more formal continuing professional education if PGEA is arranged. Here's what GPs have said about the Survival Skills for GPs programme: 'I liked the effective content and approach' 'Made me realise I am not alone and that I can improve' 'Helped me look at the good points of my work' 'Makes you think more than attending a course would' 'Useful to see how much of my stress equalled other GPs'

The reorganization of general practice and the NHS mean that GPs now face many new and distinctive ethical dilemmas in their practice. With pressure on resources and an increasing concern to evaluate the outcomes of health care, GPs have additional responsibilities that could conflict with the primary objective of caring for the individual patient.
General Practice and Ethics explores the ethical issues that are encountered by GPs in their everyday practice, addressing two central themes; the uncertainty of outcomes and effectiveness in general practice and the changing pattern of general practitioners' responsibilities. Among the topics examined are:
* the ethical implications of the use of evidence-based medicine in general practice
* consent, autonomy and confidentiality in general practice
* the history of patient-centredness
* research ethics in general practice
General Practice and Ethics presents a topical and comprehensive analysis of the kinds of ethical dilemmas faced by GPs on a daily basis which will be useful to practitioners and students alike.