The doctor-patient relationship is central to the practice of medicine and is essential for delivery of high quality healthcare in the diagnosis and treatment of disease.

The doctor–patient relationship is multilayered, dynamic and bilateral. It has been defined as “a consensual relationship in which the patient knowingly seeks the physician’s assistance and in which the physician knowingly accepts the person as a patient. However, such a contractual definition fails to portray the immense and profound nature of the doctor-patient relationship. Patients sometimes reveal secrets, worries, and fears to physicians that they have not yet disclosed to friends or family members. 

The relationship between the doctor and patient is a fiduciary relationship. This bond of trust between the doctor and the patient is essential to begin the process of healing. Doctors must adhere to the principles of medical ethics (autonomy, non-maleficence, beneficence and justice), rules (fidelity, confidentiality, privacy and veracity) and virtues (compassion, kindness, respect, etc) in their interactions with the patients, which have been laid down by various professional bodies and associations as professional codes of conduct and standards for doctors. The Hippocratic Oath, the oldest of these codes of ethics, still holds true today.

The doctor– patient relationship is in itself therapeutic; a successful consultation with a trusted doctor will have beneficial effects irrespective of any other therapy given. A patient hearing and empathy result in quality care that builds mutual faith, respect and trust between doctor and patient. Therefore, it is important for physicians to recognize when the relationship is challenged or failing. If the relationship is challenged or failing, physicians should be able to recognize the causes for the disruption in the relationship and implement solutions to improve care.