Physicians and Journalists-Reply

In Reply.—  Ms Robinson-Haynes offers sound practical advice to physicians on how to approach an interview with journalists, particularly when the researcher-clinician is uncertain about the journalist's competence.No one would argue with her point that journalists, physicians, and the public would benefit if the journalism and medical professions knew more about each other and established a common ground of understanding. Indeed, both have taken giant steps in seeking this common ground, as witnessed by the growth of science writer seminars sponsored by various scientific and medical organizations.In fact, all of the participants attending the Case Western Reserve ethics conference agreed, as was stated in my summary of the meeting, that a better understanding and awareness of each other's values are necessary. As also was stated, reaching this common ground is not easy, and the means for doing so deserves more attention and thought.In general, the participants agreed