The initial patient interview

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Psychosocial factors contribute to some extent to the course, if not to the etiology, of all diseases in all patients. In some patients, however, the nonphysical factors take on increased significance. Skillful interviewing by the physician can help in early identification of these patients and in tailoring of their treatment as necessary. Dr Mackenzie outlines an approach to patients in general and then discusses the special considerations in dealing with so-called difficult patients.