The lesser from two evils -knowledge is dominant characteristic

Interesting question. I'd say better beside manner when that means the doctor is interested in the needs of the patient. Caring about the patient would normally drive a doctor to look up information to do what is best for the patient. Understanding of medicine requires constant updating.

The doctor-patient relationship is one of the most complex social relationships because it is multifaceted and multidimensional. Good clinical relationship encompasses mutual trust, social orientation and commitment of the doctor, friendly approach with empathy for the feelings and sufferings of the patient, careful listening of the patient’s words and catching the meaning of partial messages (“reading between lines”), encouragement and non-blaming, expressing honesty, interest and willingness to help, extending compliments to patient, smiling and joking. Patients value the knowledge and proficiency of the doctor but also these experiences of compassionate care with their physicians. The patient’s need for human contact, understanding and support is very strong. Empathy is paramount in the health care setting, optimizing communication and rapport with patients and improving clinical outcomes. Medical professionals should be looking at the spiritual needs and might help a patient to cope with pain, stress and advanced chronic diseases, to decrease suffering and to prolong life. Compassionate care calls physicians to walk with people in the midst of their pain, to help them find meaning and acceptance in the midst of suffering and chronic illness, to be partners with patients rather than authorities dictating information to them.

Who first described the patient-physician relationship as a "partnership"?

Dennis

Dennis Mazur

Yes, Dennis, patient-physician partnership reflects much more positive approach from both sides and cooperation. Even real cure is not possible for many illnesses, there is always room for spiritual healing and alleviating of the sufferings of the patient. The efficient communication between the doctor and the patient is an interactive process crucial for recognizing the spiritual needs and expectations of the patients and to provide proper information, support, encouragement, motivation, advice and explanations if their expectations are unrealistic. Features of an efficient clinical communication are accessibility, understandability, continuity and repeatability, to be evidence based and culturally competent, as well as delivered in time. Healing can be experienced as an acceptance of illness and coming at peace with one's life. This healing might be considered spiritual at its core.