What is the primary responsibility of a physician in the physician-patient relationship?

The primary responsibility of a physician in the physician-patient relationship is to act in the patient's best interests. This principle is rooted in medical ethics and emphasizes the importance of providing care that is aimed at promoting the patient's health and well-being. Physicians are expected to consider the needs, values, and preferences of their patients when making medical decisions and recommendations. By prioritizing what is best for the patient, physicians foster trust and collaboration, which are essential components of effective patient care.

In ensuring that patients receive appropriate and effective treatment, physicians must also engage in open communication, provide necessary information, and respect patients' autonomy in decision-making. These actions collectively contribute to the ethical obligation to prioritize the patient's welfare above all else in the context of healthcare.