[Is professional autonomy of value? From the viewpoint of the medical director]

Professional independence is one of many steps to a self-sufficient personality. Especially for surgeons who are used to working directly and independently during operations, professional independence is important. It is best achieved in a private surgical office. The chief position in a hospital also guarantees a certain independence. Professional independence is limited by many political and financial restrictions. Nevertheless, every surgeon should try in his own area to reach as much independence as possible. Even in a subordinate position, one can achieve a personally satisfying degree of independence by special surgical skills and knowledge.