Analyzing Annals: Firearms & Public Health
A survey of U.S. internists ( ) asked whether physicians believe firearm-related violence is a public health issue, whether doctors should have the right to discuss it with patients, and if they favor various public policies aimed at reducing it. A position paper () from the ACP outlines its recommendations for reducing firearm-related injury and death in the U.S.
Use these papers to:
- Complete the questionnaire that was used for the study (it is provided as a supplement to the paper, or use the questions listed in the tables and figures). After, look the results of this national survey. Were you surprised by any of the results?
- Do you think physicians have the right (or even responsibility) to use their professional standing to influence patients' opinions or public policy on firearm-related violence?
- Do you think the ACP is right to take a stand on this issue? Do you agree with it? Does it go too far, or not far enough?