Optimal progress in medicine necessitates systematic planning for the distant as well as the immediate future. Many changes from some of our present patterns are indicated by (a) the tremendously rapid accumulation of medical knowledge, (b) the great improvement in medical facilities, (c) the rapidly increasing availability of good care for all subjects, made possible through improved communication, transportation and economic support, and (d) the public's as well as the scientists' keen interest in excellent medical care, research and teaching.

In seeking information that might be helpful in formulating many future policies for departments of medicine, I recently composed a...