Reframing patient-doctor relationships: relational autonomy and treating autonomy as a virtue

Despite extensive theoretical debate, concrete efforts to overcome paternalism and unbalanced power relations between patients doctors have produced limited results. In this article, I examine build on the concept of relational autonomy reframe patient-doctor relationship. Specifically, argue for an alternate form anchored in Spinozism that recognises relation rationality affectivity moves away from model Cartesian dualism. then use Filipino conceptions individuality explore treating as a systemic virtue, where ‘virtue’ is understood strength requires support systems agency. other words, virtue practice focusing one’s acting sustained by supportive relationships individuals social institutions.