Wound caring is more than wound care: the provider as a partner

We all know about the placebo effect, but what is it? When a patient "thinks" that he/she is being treated effectively they can improve. Patients who receive supportive interaction do better than those who are alone. These concepts suggest that the mind influences the body's response. This article will discuss the issues of the mind-body connection and its implications in patient care. The first part of this article will provide an overview of the landmark scientific information that validates this intricate relationship between the body and the mind. The second part of this article will focus on the professional practice of medicine and how improved interaction with the patient leads to better outcomes. When the provider becomes a partner with the patient, the results become synergistic. The third part of this article is written by a pervious cancer patient whose presence today is a testimonial to the success of the body/mind alliance and the provider-as-partner concept. She will present the patient's side of medical care.