In an age dominated by instant online access to medical journals, the enduring relevance of a well-crafted textbook might seem questionable. Why turn to a bound volume when a medical student or resident can summon the vast expanse of medical literature on a handheld device, directly from the patient’s bedside? The question arises: in the pursuit of evidence-based medicine, shouldn’t the focus be on navigating original research papers?
Undoubtedly, the ability to critically assess original articles is paramount for every physician, regardless of their specialization. However, before reaching this level of expertise, those embarking on the journey of medicine, particularly in the intricate field of psychiatry, require a foundational overview. Medical students, psychiatry residents, and even seasoned medical residents often find themselves pressed for time, unable to dedicate extensive hours to deciphering the complexities of psychiatric literature without guidance. The immediate demands of clinical practice necessitate rapid preparedness to address multifaceted clinical scenarios. Psychiatric disorders, by their very nature, are complex, involving a web of interacting systems. The term “biopsychosocial assessment” encapsulates the holistic approach to patient evaluation. It represents a method of organizing patient data through the lens of biological, psychological, and social systems. This framework allows clinicians to identify the most pertinent factors influencing a patient’s condition and subsequently formulate a targeted treatment plan.
Current Diagnosis & Treatment: Psychiatry, 2nd edition, serves as an invaluable resource in this context, empowering readers with the essential framework and knowledge to effectively assess their patients. It delivers clear, succinct reviews of the core domains within psychiatry, presenting the material in a clinically relevant manner. This book equips clinicians to tackle the fundamental challenges encountered in psychiatric practice. Bolstered by a team of experienced editors and contributions from a distinguished faculty comprising leading experts across the spectrum of psychiatry, this text stands out for its focused approach. While more exhaustive texts exist, the true strength of this book lies in its ability to provide readers with crucial information in a concise format. This parsimonious delivery of essential knowledge is designed to bolster clinical practice and serve as a robust foundation for further exploration of the field’s extensive literature.
For both those new to psychiatry and experienced practitioners, this text is a welcome addition. It offers novices a comprehensive introduction to the breadth of psychiatry, while providing seasoned clinicians with updated reviews in areas where significant advancements may have occurred, areas they might not have had the opportunity to explore in detail. Current Diagnosis & Treatment: Psychiatry effectively bridges the gap, ensuring practitioners possess critical, contemporary knowledge. In conclusion, this book earns its place as a valuable and highly recommended resource in the library of every psychiatrist.
Sidney Weissman, MD
Author affiliation: Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois. Financial disclosure: None reported.
doi:10.4088/JCP.09bk05560
© Copyright 2009 Physicians Postgraduate Press, Inc.
