Four models of the physician-patient relationship

We shall outline four models of the physician-patient interaction,\nemphasizing the different understandings of (1) the goals of the\nphysician-patient interaction, (2) the physician's obligations, (3) the role\nof patient values, and (4) the conception of patient autonomy. To elaborate\nthe abstract description of these four models, we shall indicate the types of\nresponse the models might suggest in a clinical situation. Third, we shall\nalso indicate how these models inform the current debate about the ideal\nphysician-patient relationship. Finally, we shall evaluate these models and\nrecommend one as the preferred model.