This comprehensive anthology offers current readings by leading, medical sociologists and their colleagues in other fields, reflecting the most recent and relevant ideas, concepts, themes, and research affecting the field today. The diverse assortment of articles presents research findings and critical discussions that define the interests of medical sociologists, health practitioners, and policy makers. Focuses on the broad areas of: EPIDEMIOLOGY; SOCIAL DEMOGRAPHY OF HEALTH; SOCIAL STRESS; HEALTH BEHAVIOR; ILLNESS BEHAVIOR AND THE SICK ROLE; HEALING OPTIONS; DOCTOR-PATIENT INTERACTION; PHYSICIANS IN A CHANGING SOCIETY; NURSES; HEALTH CARE DELIVERY IN THE UNITED STATES; and HEALTH CARE DELIVERY IN SELECTED COUNTRIES. For anyone involved in social work, medicine, nursing, and various health related professions.