Terminating the doctor-patient relationship.
This paper addresses a neglected area of medical student education--terminating the doctor-patient relationship. Rich clinical teaching opportunities are lost when educators fail to illustrate the significant emotional aspects of ending this highly personal affect-laden experience. The author explores these teaching opportunities through examination of elements of doctor-patient relationships, professional development, unresolved doctor-patient conflicts, role underevaluation, patient gifts, and referral procedures.
D003220:Conflict, Psychological; D004504:Education, Medical, Undergraduate; D006801:Humans; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012201:Reward; D012917:Social Adjustment