In this extraordinary book Iona Heath draws on her experience as a general practitioner to select & comment on a collection of passages concerning death & dying & to consider the essential nature of general practice In Ways of Dying Heath illuminates the process for professionals & lay readers & stimulates consideration of approaches to enhanced care at end of life Her renowned work The Mystery of General Practice (which has been unavailable for some time) considers the complex character of this field its core values & changing roles The two extended essays cover important issues on the role of the healthcare professional in the care of the dying the idea of life & death & the essential nature of general practice Matters of Life & Death offers inspiration for all doctors especially those with an interest in medical humanities It will also be of great interest to general readers interested in end of life matters & the nature & art of medicine