Abstract:
The relationship between physicians and patients is undeniably unique. To understand the qualities of a healing relationship, it is essential to analyze the perceptions that influence physician behavior. Metaphors and relationship models are often used in bioethics to analyze the construction of perceptions. The goal of this study is to use physician-patient relationship models to better understand physician behavior and the process of healing. Through a qualitative literature analysis and physician interviews the parent, technician, and provider models are explored. The findings suggest that the development of a good physician-patient relationship is fundamental to healing, but often challenged by systematic and social barriers. To cultivate relationship-centered medicine, research and reform should focus on the determinants of physician behavior: the standards of medical practices, health care organizations, health policy and social values.
