Each week, a healthcare professional responds to a reader's query on an industry issue. This week's expert is Dr. Ruth Quillian-Wolever, clinic director and health psychologist at the Duke University Medical Center.

Question: What are some of the challenges you face when treating chronically ill patients?

Response:(Dr. Ruth Quillian-Wolever) Chronic patients are more likely to have mood disorders than other patients, which is a risk management concern. They are also more likely to need to change behavior they do not want to change. Highly available, ready and willing participants are ideal for guiding through the stages of change, but chronic patients are not always so eager for the transition.

For more details on treating the chronically ill, please visit:
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