kinson (1994, pp. 688 693) contend that the root of this problem lies in the over emphasis on the prevailing curative and individualistic medical paradigm. As a consequence, less than one percent of graduating medical students designate preventive medicine as their medical preference specialty. The cause of this lack of interest, according to Eggert and Parkinson (1994, pp. 688 693) is bias against preventive medicine that is generated by the focus and content of undergraduate medical education.
To remedy the situation, Eggert and Parkinson (1994, p. 691) recommend that "preventive medicine be vigorously promoted at the undergraduate level, and continuing levels of medical education." There would appear to be little likelihood of such an outcome; however, as the financial interests of the nation's physicians, hospitals, and health insurers are not well served by the prevention of health problems.
Preventive medicine does, however, work, and the concept works well. Personal experience in the military forces of this country where preventive medicine has long been a credo taught this lesson well.
Eggert, Russell W., and Michael D. Parkinson. (1994, 7 September). Preventive medicine and health system reform. Journal of the American Medical Association, 272(9), 688 693.
Hersey, J., C. Boudreau, and A. Zeid. (1992). Practicing preventive medicine. Arlington, Virginia: Battelle Institute.
Leaf, A. (1993). Preventive medicine for our
...