RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Paternalism and the doctor-patient relationship in general practice.
JF British Journal of General Practice
JO Br J Gen Pract
FD British Journal of General Practice
SP 340
OP 342
VO 42
IS 361
A1 B McKinstry
YR 1992
UL http://bjgp.org/content/42/361/340.abstract
AB This paper is a brief introduction to the subject of paternalism as it occurs in general practice. A definition of paternalism is provided and the four main types of doctor-patient relationship within the paternalistic spectrum are described. These relationships are illustrated with examples from general practice. Some of the extensive literature on paternalism is reviewed. It is concluded that paternalism is rarely justified when treating patients of sound mind and then only where restoration of the patients' autonomy is the main aim.