Ethics in the doctor-patient relationship

Area of Science:

• Medical Ethics
• Doctor-Patient Relationship Dynamics

Background:

• The doctor-patient relationship has historically centered on informed consent.
• Informed consent, including consent forms and advanced directives, presents significant conceptual and practical challenges.
• These challenges can inadvertently hinder the intended goals of patient autonomy and shared decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically evaluate the limitations of the informed consent doctrine in the doctor-patient relationship.
• To propose an alternative ethical framework for the doctor-patient relationship.
• To identify strategies for strengthening the connection between doctors and patients.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of the principles underlying informed consent.
• Ethical critique of current practices in obtaining patient consent.
• Exploration of relational ethics in medical practice.

Main Results:

• The concepts of 'information' and 'consent' within the traditional model are inherently problematic.
• Existing consent mechanisms, such as forms and directives, often fail to achieve their ethical objectives.
• A focus on the doctor-patient connection offers a more robust ethical foundation.

Conclusions:

• Rethinking the doctor-patient relationship beyond a strict informed consent model is necessary.
• Strengthening the therapeutic alliance and interpersonal connection is crucial for ethical medical practice.
• Prioritizing the relational aspect can lead to improved patient care and ethical outcomes.