E-book: Confronting an Ill Society: David Widgery, General Practice, Idealism and the Chase for Change

Widgery (1947-92) was a polio survivor, physician with a column in the British Medical Journal, and activist who, in treating poor patients in the East End of London, believed that medicine should address the social as well as biological causes of illness. In a tribute intended to stimulate discussion about the nature of medical practice, fellow practitioners discuss his life, views, writings, and influence as a role model. Several photos are included. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Increasing concern about clinical negligence demands the provision of more detailed patient information about the complications and risks of treatment and the agreement of patients to any intervention from a simple physical examination to the most complex surgical procedure. This concise practical guide provides doctors and nurses with the appropriate information needed to ensure that the patients have the knowledge to give informed consent. It identifies ways in which accusations of negligence can be minimised and includes explanations of the new NHS consent procedures that have recently being implemented. All healthcare professionals will find this book valuable reading.