Current Status of Patient Education

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Abstract
Today we are experiencing rapid changes in the health care field. The primary reasons for these alterations are a rapid accumulation of new knowledge, advancing technology, and an overwhelming demand for health care. Within this revolution, there is also a change in the prevalence of diseases and in the methods of treatment. At the turn of the century, acute infectious diseases were the leading cause of death in the United States. By 1970, only one infectious disease ranked among the top ten killers. Thus, the kind of medical care most needed is being shifted away from the treatment of acute disease and crisis situations and diverted to health maintenance and the control of chronic disease. Unfortunately, most physicians have been attracted to and primarily trained in the management of acute conditions. Such care does provide stimulation and excitement; a feeling of immediate satisfaction and fulfillment and also considerable financial compensation.

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