by Gerald D. Klee, MD, Editor
[Winter 1998; Vol.25 No. 3]
In Maryland as elsewhere, there are changes in the types and frequency of clinical problems which require attention. For example, the emergence of HIV infections is associated with many forms of psychopathology that require special programs. This subject is addressed in an interview with Glenn Treisman, MD of Johns Hopkins Hospital. Dr. Treisman’s approach to clinical care blends science with a lively interest in the unique needs of each patient.
Demographic changes, such as an aging population have lead to an increasing focus on psychiatric problems of the elderly. An article on medical infomatics describes a study being conducted by Allen Y. Tien, MD, designed to develop computerized screening for depression in the elderly. This is but one example of the many new ways in which information technology may be incorporated into clinical practice and research.
Drug abuse has become a major health problem in the US. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) located in Baltimore, is engaged in many research projects in this field. David A. Gorelick, MD, PhD reports on several of these studies.
The scientific understanding and treatment of schizophrenia continues to advance. Contributing to this progress is the Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, (MPRC) which reports on a study of the effectiveness of new drugs being developed for the treatment of schizophrenia.
Advances in the treatment of eating disorders, another growing problem, are described in a report from a recent conference on the subject at St. Joseph Hospital.
With so much progress in research and in clinical understanding, one might wonder why patients and physicians are often unhappy with the quality of care available. Some answers to this question will be found in “The Business of Medicine” by Steven Sharfstein, MD. In addition, a report from MedChi Task Force for Privacy and Confidentiality addresses other threats to the physician-patient relationship and recommends actions that can be taken.