Title: AMA Code of Medical Ethics' Opinions Related to Moral Psychology and “Difficult” Clinician-Patient Relationships
Abstract: Labeling a patient in the health record as “difficult,” “drug-seeking,” or by another descriptor that places a subjective moral judgment on a patient can inappropriately influence how all clinicians will treat or interact with that patient. While the Code of Medical Ethics does not address labeling patients as “difficult” per se, it does speak to the necessity of a respectful relationship between patient and physician.