Black Cat Vol. 2

The 99 axioms described in Bedside Manners: A Compendium of Physician Relationships are reminders that the practice of medicine is not just about the science and the art, but physicians' deportment as well. Morality is reasonably constant. Whereas, etiquette is behavior determined by social norms that are similar but clearly not the same. Physicians are bound to act on what is morally good. How they follow the precepts of proper etiquette may vary depending on their ability to cope and connect--- their bedside manner. The exploding science, a doubting public that often assesses blame on poor outcomes, the competitive business environment and increasing regulatory interventions, all test physicians' dedication. Still remaining are time-tested precepts that serve as guideposts for physician interaction, not only with their patients and their peers, but also with all those that they develop a relationship.