Psychogenic Factors in Chest Diseases

Abstract

Without enlarging further upon the need for psychosomatic treatment for our chest patients, let us consider briefly the value of this step to our specialty. If every chest physician made a special effort to deal with his patient not only as a case of organic disease, but as an emotionally sick, fearful and anxious individual, he would find such a grateful response as would indeed warm his heart. The widespread practice of this art would soon label the chest physician as outstanding in his understanding of the care of the sick individual. Could we ask for a finer compliment? Let me implore that we hold fast to those agents, in the combating of tuberculosis, that have passed the test of time and science. We are today emphasizing the psychosomatic angle in order that we may add to the effectiveness of our therapeutic agents and not detract from their value.