SPECIAL ARTICLES   

Minerva Ginecologica 2012 October;64(5):447-53

Copyright © 2012 EDIZIONI MINERVA MEDICA

language: Italian

Medical humanities in gynecology and obstetrics

Surico N., Codecà C., Caccia S. ✉

Clinica Ginecologica e Ostetrica, AOU Maggi, Novara, Italia

Medicine is a collection of science, technology and human values. Nowadays, the most modern paradigm of medicine is based on the combination of man’s vulnerability and his need for healthcare, both in a technical-pharmacological sense, but more importantly, with regard to human relations. Of course, the solidarity perspective must represent the strong relational foundation of the doctor-patient relationship, considering that this perspective is now a clear indicator of the civilization level of a nation. The notion of healthcare must therefore be understood in its twofold and inseparable meaning: firstly, the act of “curing” and secondly, the act of “taking care of”. In Italy, the term for both of these acts is unique (“curare” meaning to treat, to cure, to care for). However, it is necessary to encompass all meanings as they are inseparable. The responsibility of the doctor is, therefore, to treat, assist, understand and to be at the service of each human being in their interest and in their centrality.