Professionalism and academic medicine: the Mayo Clinic program in professionalism.

Public trust in the medical profession has declined and with it physician morale and well being. This has undesirable consequences for patients, physicians and for medical education and training at academic medical centers. The recent upsurge of interest in professionalism may be attributed in part to a desire to regain public trust and restore the image and morale of the profession. The importance of professionalism led to a formal program being established at Mayo clinic that informs clinical practice, conducts educational initiatives and supports novel research into the topic. It may serve as a guide and template for the establishment of similar programs promoting professionalism within academic medical centers.