Abstract

The Southern Medical Journal is pleased and honored to publish a special series on bedside medicine and to welcome Drs Andrew Elder and Abraham Verghese as the guest editors. These two world-class humanists, clinicians, and medical educators are leading the effort to re-emphasize the critical importance of the physical examination and bedside encounter with patients. I have personally and professionally benefitted from my friendship with these physicians, while learning a great deal from them about the preeminence of the patient–physician relationship and the joys of medicine. Dr Verghese is a renowned author and educator and has touched the lives of many individuals in a special, uplifting manner. Dr Elder travels the globe, facilitating the clinical education of physicians and developing certifying processes in many countries. They have selected excellent authors for this special series and we appreciate each professional who has contributed to this series.