Problems of terminology.

TLDR: Elsewhere in this issue (pp 1362 and 1368) two communications seeks to offer solutions for some of the problems associated with finding appropriate words to be used in communicating about health careers.

Abstract: Elsewhere in this issue (pp 1362 and 1368) two communications seeks to offer solutions for some of the problems associated with finding appropriate words to be used in communicating about health careers. Misunderstandings, confusion, and ill will sometimes develop among students, educators, and clinicians in various health occupations, as well as among spokesmen for different professional organizations. The source of these undesirable reactions can often be identified as lack of uniformity in terminology applied to the various occupational groups, and terminology applied to the functions performed by members of the groups. When a given term has different meanings for different people, communication disintegrates and problems multiply. Partial solution lies in attempting to reach consensus about what particular terms are going to mean. Though some groups have developed definitions and, possibly, a glossary of terms to suit their own needs, specific terms often have a different connotation when applied to similar