Psychoneuro-immunology: a new concept in holistic health care

Investigations performed in several centres have established beyond doubt the direct effects of psychological states upon immune function. This has led to the evolution of a new branch of medical science, termed psychoneuro-immunology. Based upon these findings, the individual is seen necessarily to assume a far greater responsibility for his or her state of health or disease. A new holistic health system has been proposed which is based upon this concept. This health care system combines a primary health care component together with an ongoing active patient involvement with contemporary medical management. An important consequence of this system is a cheaper but more effective arrangement of health care.