Change Model and Addiction

In our society physicians fill the roles of diagnostician and healer but another role equally important is that of aiding patients to understand and take ownership of their own health and guide them in making decisions and any necessary changes to improve that health. Dietary restrictions, stress management, and exercise programs are common interventions prescribed by physicians but none of these will be successful without a change in the patient's behavior. Without that relapses are common and consistent, life-long behavioral changes are difficult to implement.

We need only to look at the rows of books in stores or the numerous resolutions made at the beginning of every year to know that change is a popular topic, but it is often easier said than done. Physicians can promise a patient improvement in health and back it with scientific evidence but that does not guarantee patients will be...
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