Authors Goodman and Vernon convincingly argue that the specialty of cardiology, as well as our country's cardiovascular-care system overall, is in a state of unadulterated crisis. The components of the crisis are many, and include: delivery systems that are woefully ill equipped to meet the ever-increasing demand for cardiovascular services a critical shortage of cardiologists an aging populations that is pushing cardiovascular-care delivery systems to their absolute limit a grossly inadequate number of programs dedicated to the prevention and early detection of heart disease Goodman and Vernon, who have worked with thousands of hospitals and cardiology groups nationwide, urge all involved in the delivery of cardiovascular services to wake up to this alarming reality and, more importantly, to respond. Throughout the book's 23 chapters, the authors address a broad range of issues - from physician manpower to information systems - from outreach networks to comprehensive, cardiovascular program strategies.
The authors' message is resoundingly clear: Lives are literally at stake, and every responsible cardiovascular-care provider should vow - right now - to become a part of the solution.
And those who do respond proactively will be rewarded, for from a crisis will spring opportunity.
