Law, Medicine and the Mass Media: Uneasy Partners

Restraints have long been imposed on speech and advertising by doctors and lawyers with the result that members of these professions have traditionally feared publicity. Modern times, however, witness increasing exposure of the professions in the media. The author examines the traditional restraints, First Amendment implications, and the performance of the media in presenting legal and medical issues. He proposes new standards for medical and legal reporters and reports, and concludes that involvement in public debate should be part of satisfactory professional conduct