Biomedical Communications: Purpose, Audience, and Strategies

With data from the United States and Europe, Jon Miller and Linda Kimmel examine the public's understanding of and attitude toward biotechnology and biomedicine while they present methods of introducing cutting edge science to the
nonscientist. Biomedical Communications illustrates how vital it is for researchers, journalists, and policy makers to clearly communicate their findings in a way that avoids general misconception or confusion. The authors explore how to acquire information about biomedical policy, discuss strategies for informing consumers, and present tactics for improving biomedical communication with the public.

Using Research to Improve Biomedical CommunicationsThe Public Understanding of Biomedical ScienceStrategies for Communications to ConsumersPublic Attitudes Toward Biotechnology Issues

Part I: A Basic Framework
Using Research to Improve Biomedical Communications.
Public Understanding of Biomedical Science.
Public Interest in Health Informatics.

Part II: Communications to Influence Public Policy
Primary Sources of Biomedical Information.
The Acquisition and Retention of Health Information by Consumers.
Strategies for Communicating to Consumers.
Citizen Participation in the Formulation of Biomedical Policy.

Part III: Communications to Inform Consumers
The Acquisition of Information about Biomedical Policy Issues.
Public Attitudes Toward Biomedical Research Issues.
Public Attitudes Toward Biotechnology Issues.

Part IV: Biomedical Communication Policies for the 21st Century
Strategies for Communicating about Biomedical Policy.
Policies to Support Informal Decision-Making by Consumers.
Citizenship and the Formulation of Biomedical Policy in the 21st Century.