This collection is a resource for healthcare professionals intended to assist them in both the education and treatment of their patients. The basis of this book is to help professionals understand how people of all ages and backgrounds learn about health--and how to help patients, families, and communities understand, manage, and prevent illness. Editors Lowenstein (Health Professions Education Doctoral Program, Simmons College), Foord-May (Physical therapy, Simmons College), and Romano (education specialist, Children"s Hospital Boston) and their more than 30 specialist co-contributors discuss both successful and unsuccessful efforts in patient and family education. Authors utilize both theoretical discussions and case histories. The chapters cover a range of topics, from methods for working with cultural diversity and teaching tools for patients with specific illnesses to mental health and reproductive issues. Annotation ©2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)