ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION At the present time, with so much emphasis on pathology tests, radiology, drugs and surgical techniques, almost nothing is being written about one of the most important skills of all-the ability to build a strong physician-patient relationship. This skill has been recognized since the earliest recorded history and was known as “bedside manner.” Unfortunately, doctors are seldom seen by the domestic bedside any more and medicine is probably the poorer because of it. Hospital clinicians often had this skill as well, and those who could sincerely stroke the brow of a frightened, sick patient and pronounce that he would soon be well again, were worshipped by their patients.
