This book is designed to enhance suitable interaction between the patient and the family physician. Worldwide shortage of physicians, limits the available time that can be assigned to each client during an office visit. The primary physician usually gives only about 10 minutes for each appointment. It is essential for a patient to present problems in details, accurately, chronologically and logically, within 2 to 3 minutes. The doctor will then afford the time, to evaluate the condition; perform a physical examination; organize suitable tests; formulate, explain the diagnosis and management, or arrange for appropriate specialist referrals.
Attempts are also made in this book to elucidate the actions that a doctor may normally take for various common situations. If such actions are not taken, the patient should know the reasons, or consider negotiating for the needed actions to be taken. Obviously, in a book of this size, not all conditions are covered. By giving ample examples and principles, it is hoped that the skill in applying the same principles to new situation may be developed. The book is not intended to be an encompassing medical text, reference for first aid, or coverage for situations requiring urgent hospital care. It is strictly designed for handling that vital 10 minutes in the doctor's office. People, who are already motivated to take an active interest in their health issues, by looking up medical information from texts and the internet, will find this book informative and useful. The conscientious doctors will serve the patients better, knowing the clients' rightful expectation.
The author is a doctor whose education and experience have spanned over 3 continents- Asia, Europe and North America. He graduated from the University of Hong Kong with an honour degree, a distinction awarded to only handfuls of graduates, since the establishment of the medical school. His training and work encompassed: general medicine; child health; skin and infectious diseases; eye, ear, nose and throat diseases; emergency medicine; general and orthopaedic surgery. The experience in the dual practices of general surgery and family medicine provide the basis for writing this book.
While working in the Queen Mary Hospital, University of Hong Kong, he participated in teaching medical students & post-graduates. Subsequently her served as a senior medical officer in general surgery & chief of the casualty departments in the 1,400 beds, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong. In Canada, he had served in various hospitals in the capacities of consultant in general surgery; chief of general surgery; chairman of the medical audit, surgical review and intern education committees etc. His interest in quality medical care, and assurance of such among his colleagues, has won him high praises form the medical community and clients alike. Research papers were published widely in medical journals in Asia, United Kingdom and US Eminently, his scientific paper Quality Assurance in Surgical Practice, had been selected by the American College of Utilization Review Physicians for studies by candidates participating in the specialty board examinations. His 43 years of practical experience is sublimated into this book to provide essential knowledge and principles for enhancing health and safety.
