Abstract

FACCHINI, Monica. Behavior changes in long-term treatment: Physician-patient relationship. Medicina (B. Aires) [online]. 2004, vol.64, n.6, pp.550-554. ISSN 0025-7680.

Chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity and hypertension, among others, need long term treatments. The constitution of a basic alliance is the cornerstone of any therapeutic action. In the patient-centered approach, the aim is to enter their world in order to understand the subjective experience of the disease in a broader frame. It is relevant to involve the patient as an active, respected and fundamental participant of the changing process. The way a treatment is prescribed is as important as the treatment itself; the aim is to teach the patient how to follow his/her own treatment, relapses must not be considered failures but opportunities for learning. Patients need to find their own solutions and motivations and be responsible for their health on a daily basis. We need to empower them to do so. Long-term, successful and effective interventions require a treatment which focuses on compliance and self care.

Keywords : Chronic diseases; Therapeutic approach; Self care; Compliance.

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