The American healthcare system is vital, vibrant, and indispensable. However, it’s also complex, and can be difficult to navigate as an everyday consumer. 

How does medical insurance work? How do you learn more about the prescription your doctor recommended? How does aging and long-term care factor into your personal health plan? 

Medical Handbook: A Consumer Guide for Navigating the Medical System equips you with the fundamental information you need to develop a working knowledge of the American medical system. By providing information regarding many facets of healthcare, the book empowers you to make sound medical decisions that support your overall health and wellness. 

The book provides information regarding medical education, medical and surgical specialties, and inpatient versus outpatient care. Chapters on nutrition and exercise help you understand your role in preventive health. Additional chapters address contemporary topics in healthcare, including mental health, sexual health, the role of marijuana in medicine, and consulting the internet for medical advice. 

Written from the perspective of a medical physician, Medical Handbook is a concise, helpful guide for individuals who wish to better understand the American medical system.

Gregory Billy, M.D., is currently an associate professor in the Departments of Orthopaedics & Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation at Penn State College of Medicine. He teaches resident physicians, fellows, medical, and undergraduate students in both the College of Medicine and the College of Health and Human Development. He earned his medical degree from the Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine and completed his residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Sinai Hospital/Johns Hopkins Hospital Program in Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Billy also serves as a team physician for Penn State University and the State College Spikes, a Class A professional minor league baseball team. His research interests include pain and spine medicine, neurologic and brain disorders, and sports medicine.