In Better, Dr. Atul Gawande explores the medical profession and, in a series of essays, seeks to clarify that things can be done better. In a thought-provoking, in-depth way, Gawande tells stories that will help both medical and non-medical professionals change the way that they look at the performance and outcomes of physicians.

Betteris divided into three sections: Diligence, Doing Right, and Ingenuity. In the "Diligence" section, the author looks at hand-washing, the attempt to eradicate polio from India, and medical care during war. In "Doing Right," he explores malpractice, chaperones in the examining room, the amount physicians are paid versus what they pay for training and insurance, doctors and capital punishment, and fighting to come up with the right diagnosis at the right time. In "Ingenuity", he follows the labor and delivery of a patient and discusses all of the things that are truly judgment calls, cystic fibrosis, and medical care in other countries.

Gawande finishes up the book by giving his suggestions for becoming a “positive deviant” - in other words, a doctor who makes a worthy difference.

All in all, Betteris an intriguing and insightful look at the medical profession and offers some ideas of how different professionals have made a difference in the field and how others can do the same. Even if you are not part of the medical community, Bettercan help you understand the myriad choices and changes that go on daily to ensure good medical care in the United States and around the world.