This reference book for the layman is an expanded edition of a successful book first published in 1987, despite the efforts of the General Medical Council and British Medical Association to preserve secrecy. Most of us will need to see a consultant or specialist at some time in our lives - but we have no way of knowing if we have chanced upon someone of excellence in his or her area or a doctor about whom the others keep uncomfortably silent. This guide is designed to help in deciding whom to consult, by making professional judgements based, for the most part, on the esteem of peers and the frank opinions of senior nursing staff. The list is organized by the major specialisms and has introductory essays on decoding qualifications, medical ethics and the reality of Harley Street.