Oftentimes, I am asked by physicians how to end the physician-patient relationship. For various reasons, the physician desires to end the relationship and have the parties go their separate ways. Such may stem from a disagreement concerning the course of treatment, threats or harassment by the patient, or just personality conflicts.

While a physician retains some control over who he/she treats, there are certain ethical and legal obligations imposed on the physician once the physician-patient relationship has begun. The American Medical Association ("AMA") states that "Physicians are free to choose whom they will serve… Once having undertaken a case, the physician should not neglect the patient." Thus, when terminating the physician-patient relationship, the termination must be structured properly in order to avoid violating ethical obligations and opening oneself up to potential liability.

Originally Published in the Birmingham Medical News - October 7, 2013.