The patient-physician relationship is central to the role of the family physician. Family physicians have an understanding and appreciation of the human condition, especially the nature of suffering and patients' response to sickness. They are aware of their strengths and limitations and recognize when their own personal issues interfere with effective care. Family physicians respect the privacy of the person. Family physicians are cognizant of the power imbalance between doctors and patients and the potential for abuse of this power.
Family physicians provide continuing care to their patients.
They use repeated contacts with patients to build on the patient-physician relationship and to promote the healing power of interactions. Over time, the relationship takes on special importance to patients, their families, and the physician. As a result, the family physician becomes an advocate for the patient.