[Letters of condolence to the relatives of patients]

Most people who die in the Netherlands receive medical care during the final stage of their life. Since the 19th century, when a sombre prognosis was often the only medical intervention available, sophisticated diagnostic procedures and curative victories have forced elementary bedside manners into retreat. However, modern medicine is rediscovering its boundaries; the inevitability of death and the human tragedy of dying. The renewed interest in letters of condolence from doctors to the family of their deceased patients is an example of this. These letters provide the physician with an opportunity for worthy and effective behaviour under trying circumstances.