Gift-giving in the medical student--patient relationship

J Med Ethics. 2012 Aug;38(8):506-7. doi: 10.1136/medethics-2012-100738. Epub 2012 May 30.

Abstract

There is paucity in the published literature that provides any ethical guidance guiding gift-giving within the student--patient relationship. This is perhaps because the dynamics of the medical student--patient relationship have not yet been explored as extensively as the doctor--patient relationship. More importantly, however, gift--giving in the doctor-patient relationship has traditionally been from the patient to the doctor and not vice versa. This article examines the literature published in this vicinity reflecting on an encounter with a patient.

MeSH terms

  • Ethics, Medical
  • Gift Giving / ethics*
  • Humans
  • New Zealand
  • Physician-Patient Relations / ethics*
  • Students, Medical*