Year: 1970 Source: California Medicine, v.112, no.3, (March 1970), p.102-103 SIEC No: 20060123

This article discusses the important role the physician plays in their patientÕs health. It is essential there is a good physician-patient relationship, as it is the physicianÕs responsibility to determine whether the patient is depressed & contemplating death by suicide. This article also mentions the importance of non-psychiatric physicians developing an active case finding approach, as even they have to identify & manage more depressed & suicidal patients. The most important qualities a physician needs are sensitivity & intuition, & a non-judgemental attitude in dealing with them. (13 refs)