Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings: Celebrating our Past, Enjoying the Present, Building our Future

Abstract

This article reviews the history of the Journal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings. The many special issues of the Journal over the first thirteen years of publication are discussed, highlighting such topics as psychology and primary care, psychology's role in medical settings internationally, diversity issues in medical settings, the impact of relationships on health care, psychology and transplantation, combined psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy, public health and psychology, and a series of issues focused upon research, practice, salaries, politics and policies surrounding psychology in medical settings. The 481 published manuscripts are discussed as a reflection of psychology's role in the study and treatment of the most prevalent diseases leading to death and those illnesses most likely to restrict activity and limit quality of life. Several areas of focus for the future of the Journal, and for the field of psychology in medical settings, are presented. The Editor then takes the opportunity to thank those who contributed to the Journal since its inception, including associate editors, advisory board, editorial board members, reviewers, contributors and published authors, readers, publishing editors, and colleagues Tovian and Sweet, co-founders of the Journal. The article concludes with the encouragement that “the future of clinical psychology in medical settings appears bright.”