The desire to treat each patient as I would want a member of my own family to be treated. Open and honest communication between the physician and patient, including disclosure of all information necessary for the patient to be an informed participant in his or her foot and ankle care. Commitment of the physician to be an advocate for the patient and for what is best for the patient, without regard to the physician's personal interests or the interests of any other healthcare entity. Provision by the physician of that care which is necessary and appropriate for the condition of the patient, and neither more nor less. Avoidance of any conflict of interest or inappropriate relationships outside of the therapeutic relationship. Respect for, and careful guardianship of, any intimate details of the patient's life, which may be shared with the physician. A career-spanning dedication by the physician to continually maintain professional knowledge and state of the art skills while continually educating the next generation of physicians through my residency/fellowship programs and academic appointments with multiple podiatric medical schools. Respect for the autonomy of the patient. Respect for the privacy and dignity of the patient. Compassion for the patient and his or her family.