THE PATIENT-PHYSICIAN RELATIONSHIP: IT’S HOW MEDICINE SHOULD BE

Abstract

The patient-physician relationship underpins the essence of what transpires between patient and physician. It has evolved over the centuries from a totally paternalistic one to one of autonomy in the last half of the 20th century and fi nally to one of shared decision making in the 21st century. Medical ethics requires that both patient and physician share the knowledge available about the patient’s illness, treatment and prognosis and then allow decisions for future care to be determined by mutual consideration and respect by both parties. Clinical medical ethics in the US has been evolving and approaches to multiple patient care problems have taken on great significance as we as physicians comprehend the need for incorporating the elements of ethics into daily medical practice. These elements include: benefi cence to the patient, avoidance of malefi cence, respect for the autonomy of the parent and fairness and justice. The incorporation of these ethical principles begins with the physician himself manifesting traits of empathy and compassion. The American Medical Association published in 1847 the “Code of Medical Ethics”. It was the fi rst national code of ethics written for its members. In 2017 the AMA has updated and expanded the information needed for all members of the medical profession to follow in their relationship with patients and society. This code of ethics is universal and should be followed by all practitioners of the healing arts.

Keywords

• patient-physician relationship, medical ethics, healing