Advances in medical genetics.

Although advances in medical genetics are designed ultimately to help human beings receive better health care, they pose many problems for society. Some of these concerns are real, but others result from misunderstanding and/or misrepresentation of the true implication of certain developments in genetics. It is obvious that the geneticist must play a dual role in society as scientist and as advocate. Although such a duality or role is not easy, it is not impossible. However, it does mean that the training of the medical geneticist must include more than exposure to the scientific approach.     

Style in medical journals.

A study of medical journals from 1962 showed a constant preoccupation with style. Editors and contributors on both sides of the Atlantic revile unnecessary obscurity and complexity and the use of jargon, barbarisms, vogue words, and weak impersonal constructions. They bewail the pompous use of verbiage and the "medspeak" typified by acronyms and neologisms created by affixation. Suggestions for possible causes of poor medical style range from editorial demands for compression and a general ignorance of the principles of good writing to faulty logic and the subordination of communication to status seeking. The consequences of bad writing may include the fragmentation of knowledge, an increase in the importance of abstracting services, a trend towards free glossy medical newspapers, and, as remedial measures, workshops and courses in medical writing. Some implications for English language teachers working with foreign medical graduates and preclinical students are discussed.     

Anglo-French contrasts in medical practice.

Medical practice in a British and French town was compared. The British and French general practitioners (GPs) and specialists were observed for one session each, and questionnaires were presented to the doctors and to samples of the inhabitants. Style of practice may largely determined by fiscal factors.     

Role modeling in medical education.

Role models play an important part in determining how medical trainees mature professionally. Demonstrating clinical skills at the bedside is the most distinctive characteristic of an effective role model. We discuss how role modeling affects professional identity and career choice and offer several suggestions for improving medical education, including the need for leaders to change the educational climate and culture. If implemented, these changes would enhance our ability to provide medical students with positive role models.