Date of Award
2017
Document Type
Dissertation/Thesis
Submission Date
October 2026
Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]
Kennedy, Ashley Graham
Abstract
In this thesis I argue that the title “doctor” negatively affects the physician-patient relationship. This conclusion is important, because this relationship is the cornerstone of medical care and has emotional, physical, and informational impacts on the patient, the physician, and the healthcare system overall. From the analysis of various anecdotes I show that patients often relinquish their autonomy in the presence of medical titles, and that this causes an imbalance in the power dynamics of the physician-patient relationship, which in turn can negatively affect patient care. Finally, I argue that abolishing medical titles would foster an environment where the ethical principles of autonomy and beneficence are carefully balanced and where patients, physicians, and other healthcare professionals can interact as equals in the clinical setting.
Recommended Citation
Valdez Palomino, Maria, "DOES THE USE OF MEDICAL TITLES IN THE CLINICAL SETTING AFFECT THE PHYSICIAN-PATIENT RELATIONSHIP?" (2017). Harriet L Wilkes Honors College Theses 2010 - 2019. 290.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/etd_honors_2/290
Extent
33 p.
Identifier
FA00012643
Comments
Includes bibliography.