Arthur S. Elstein,Ph.D.: skeptic,scholar, teacher and mentor

Arthur S. Elstein, Ph.D. has said that he has been motivated to address two research questions throughout this career: How do physicians make decisions? and How can we help them make better ones? He has addressed these questions using the tools of a psychologist but the results of his research in medical cognition, medical reasoning, and judgement have had a lasting impact on medical education and how future physicians are prepared. Further, through teaching and mentoring, he has produced a second generation of medical education researchers and leaders; and perhaps most importantly, through his role modeling of skepticism and scholarship, he has taught what a professional educator must do to succeed in medical education. His distinguished thirty-eight year career was primarily at the Office of Medical Education Research and Development at Michigan State University's College of Human Medicine (1968-1994) and, after his retirement there, in the Department of Medical Education and the School of Public Health at the University of Illinois at Chicago. During his career he authored or edited four books, wrote 22 book chapters, published 99 articles, and made more than 900 presentations. He received many prestigious awards. This article gives an overview of Elstein's career and accomplishments and his perspectives on significant innovations in medical education, the role of professional medical educators, the major lessons he has learned during his career.     

Bond,E.J.: 1996, Ethics and Human Well-Being

Medicine, Health Care and Philosophy -     

Genetic screening: triumphs, problems, and controversies.

As genetic screening becomes more widespread, it becomes increasingly important to analyze the manifold implications of genetic screening programs. This paper characterizes the various types of programs and discusses some of the scientific, ethical, social, and economic issues that arise in evaluating any genetic screening program. Two examples of successful programs, newborn screening for phenylketonuria and carrier detection for Tay-Sachs disease, are presented. We then discuss three other screening programs that have not yet been fully implemented but which have already engendered a great deal of controversy: mass screening for heterozygosity for cystic fibrosis, DNA fingerprinting in the criminal justice system, and genetic screening in the workplace.     

Childhood obesity: etiology, prevention, and treatment.

The rapid increase in the prevalence of obesity in children and adolescents is alarming, particularly in light of its many medical and psychosocial consequences. In this review, we discuss key concepts of nutrition and physical activity. Etiology, prevention, and treatment strategies are also discussed, focusing on the macronutrient content of the diet, portion control, meal patterns, physical activity, and sedentary behaviors. Television viewing, lack of physical activity, and intake of fast food and soft drinks are also examined as potential contributing factors in the obesity epidemic. Children should be helped to develop healthy nutrition and exercise habits early, since interventions are most effective when behaviors are still being formed.