Discusses the relative operating characteristic analysis of signal detection theory as a measure of diagnostic accuracy. Reports representative values of this measure in several fields. Compares how problems in these fields are handled. (CW)

Computers are used to influence diagnostic and therapeutic decisions. The computer's information-handling capabilities allow it to serve as a reliable extension of the physician's memory and expander of the physician's information and synthesized knowledge resources. (BB)

Analyzes 46 medical research papers on the effects of innovative versus standard surgical procedures on the health of patients. Results reveal that innovations generally reduce complications. The ethics of experimental surgery are also discussed. (CP)

Described are the needs and difficulties of relating psychological research on judgment and decision making to the attribute of clinical judgment by physicians. (SL)

Discusses a current reassessment of medical training that may lead to the first major overhaul in half a century of the system for evaluating, licensing, and certifying doctors in specialities. Granting of an unrestricted license will probably be moved from the internship period to the end of specialist training. (JR)

Reports on a variety of topics related to experimental design and analysis in the field of medical education. (CP)

Discusses a class of artificial intelligence computer programs (often called "expert systems" because they address problems normally thought to require human specialists for their solution) intended to serve as consultants for decision making. Also discusses accomplishments (including information systematization in medical diagnosis and…

States that statutory requirements of demonstrated medical effectiveness are far from being clearly resolved. Cites some common experimental practices which can provide misleading results. (CP)

Describes computerized differential classifications of a variety of subtle brain dysfunctions. Provides objective corroboration that may be a useful adjunct to psychiatric diagnoses. Discusses independent criteria for diagnostic validity, evaluation of treatment efficacy and more individualized treatment. Outlines the implications of this…

The medical profession has been required to surrender its autonomy step by step since the late middle ages. This is a discussion of the history and future of medical malpractice. (Author/BB)

Evaluation of the efficacy of a medical intervention requires measurements of both its benefits and risks as compared to those of alternative forms of management. The requisite measurements are more difficult to make than this description suggests, and the accumulation of information is inhibited by certain characteristics of our pattern of health…

In spite of remarkable advances in medical therapy and in the development of fantastic diagnostic devices, American society appears increasingly disenchanted with the physician. Some of the reasons for this paradox are discussed in this article. (BB)

Defensive medicine (the use of diagnostic and end-treatment measures explicitly for the purposes of averting malpractice suits) is frequently cited as one of the least desirable effects of the current rise in medical litigation. It is claimed that defensive medicine is responsible for the rising cost of health care and the exposure of patients to…

Methods for assessing and monitoring the quality of care for research and for quality assurance programs are discussed. (Author/BB)