Doctor on the air.

This paper reviews the number of medical programmes in local radio broadcasting and analyses the problems presented by 158 callers on a regular medical, open-line programme in Plymouth, Devon. The problems are similar to those presenting in general medical practice. Most callers are referred back to their own doctor, usually with an explanation or medical advice. Local radio medical broadcasting may prove to be a useful preventive and educational tool as well as providing popular entertainment. General practitioners are appropriate providers of such a service.