Though American medicine remains arguably at a pinnacle in the world in terms of its status, wealth, and power as a profession, physicians are in danger of losing their top economic position as other professions close the gap. Queen of the Professions: The Rise and Decline of Medical Prestige and Power in America examines this perceived decline and future challenges in American medical care. Charles E. McClelland ’62 is a professor emeritus of history at the University of New Mexico.