Establishing the Physician‐Patient Relationship

background. This is the first in a series of articles written to address the many medicolegal issues that impact the practice of dermatology. The topic of establishing the physician‐patient relationship was chosen as the starting point since it is the cornerstone of every medical malpractice action. methods. A format of an initial discussion of legal concepts followed by hypotheticals and a review of actual cases was chosen to enhance interactive learning. The subject matter is based on a review of medicolegal literature and actual recorded case law. results. A physician‐patient relationship may be established whether or not there is actual physical contact between the physician and patient, there is gratuitous advice, or there is an academic purpose. conclusion. The key in determining whether a physician‐patient relationship has been established is whether the patient reasonably relied upon advice given or had an expectation of treatment. 1993 American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc.