This kindness brought home to me the importance of the very special bond between a physician and his patients. This is oftentimes referred to as the honored patient-doctor relationship. The patient-doctor relationship is so crucial in the diagnostic, treatment and healing process that it must no longer be allowed to erode. Instead of just the patient and doctor, we now have forced on us managed-care plans, lawyers and employers, all interfering with our personal relationship. Because of the inherent imbalance in power and knowledge between patients and physicians, this increases patients' vulnerability.
Physicians have an obligation to promote independence and informed decision-making.
Violations of boundaries in the relationship destroy the trust essential to the healing process. Patients and doctors must take whatever steps necessary to halt the intrusion into their relationship. Apparently, he has accomplished most of the ground work. He succeeded in getting students motivated by introducing innovations, such as setting challenging goals in reading. He reduced distractions by demonstrating the benefits of neat school uniforms.