It seems that 'defensive medicine' has become prevalent in US society. What does that phrase mean? Knowing what you now know about the current health care structures, reimbursements and expectations, explain how that has occurred ? Is it a good thing? A bad thing? How has it impacted the cost of care? What other profession has helped fuel the fire for defensive medicine ? How has defensive medicine influenced the move toward health care reform in the US ? Does it show any sign of slowing down? Should it?