Professionalism in medicine: an A-Z primer.

To be successful as physicians, we should adhere to a simple, time-honored code of conduct. We must commit ourselves to a lifetime of self-directed learning. We must strive to be thoughtful, kind, and sensitive. We must avoid arrogance, dogmatism, and negativism. We must be honest, moral, tolerant, trustworthy, and above all else, humble and compassionate. Consistent adherence to these traits will help us maintain the nobility and credibility of the medical profession.