Doctor-Patient Relationship Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic and Altruism

Abstract

Altruism is part of professionalism and signifies advocating the interests of one’s patients over one’s own interest. Altruistic acts are defined as acts of goodwill and the well-being of others, without any selfish intent. It has been thought an inherent virtue of medical practice over the years. Altruistic tendencies are implicit in the nature of a doctor. With medicine assuming a consumer–provider model, the role of altruism becomes blurred over time. Mistrust in the medical profession has grown in recent years because of the increasing cases of medical malpractice and corruption. In this context, altruism may just be the remedy to salvage the level of trust patients have in the system. Incorporation and revisiting altruism among healthcare workers will definitely help in a better doctor-patient relationship and provision of Universal Health Coverage.