The importance of physician advocacy.

Abstract

Physician advocacy is essential for delivering quality care; however, rarely is the importance emphasized in our medical training or prioritized during our clinical practice. The patient-physician relationship enables the physician to be an impassioned champion for patients and the profession through daily experiences-good and bad. Intentionally engaging medical trainees in advocacy will instill the power and purpose of physician advocacy. As the profession of medicine sees greater adoption of an employed model, physicians must ensure that the well-being of patients remains at the forefront. The physician holds the responsibility and privilege to ensure the delivery of quality care through engagement in advocacy.