David Seedhouse

It is generally agreed that there are two fundamental aspects to health promotion: the end result, which is improved health and well-being; and the means, which is enabling people and communities to take charge of aspects of their lives which affect their health.

'Thoughtful Health Care' offers a timely antidote to a climate dominated by endless rules, regulations, mission statements and codes of practice. Fixation on avoiding risk at all costs has created a checkbox culture where everyone is treated according to standardised plans. But people are complicated, and cannot be understood disconnected from the complex histories, values, and environments that shape us. Obsessive focus on 'safety first' has obscured...