The principles of the Hippocratic oath & hippocratic family medicine

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While there have been several translations and modifications to the Oath of Hippocrates, the original ethos has been forgotten, or more often ignored, by modern healthcare professionals.  

We, the members of the American College of Family Medicine, affirm and commit ourselves to the precepts and ethos of this oath:

In the presence of the Almighty, I promise that I will fulfill this Oath to the best of my ability.  

Those who have taught me the art of Medicine I will respect, and I will seek to faithfully impart my knowledge to those who also accept this covenant and to whom I am a mentor.  

I will always seek the physical and emotional well-being of my patients, according to my best ability and judgment, being careful to cause no intentional harm.

I will not participate in euthanasia or help a patient to commit suicide, nor will I suggest such courses of action. Similarly, I will not help a woman obtain an abortion. In purity and holiness I will maintain the utmost respect for human life from the moment of fertilization until the moment of natural death, carefully guarding my role as a healer.

When indicated, I will seek the counsel of those with appropriate special skills for the treatment of my patient.

I will always act for the benefit of the sick, treating all with professional and moral integrity, with respect and dignity. I will avoid all sexual involvement with my patients.

Those things that I learn from or about my patient in confidence, I will hold in strict confidence.

May I be found faithful to these promises and may I enjoy the practice of my art, being respected as one who is dedicated to the healing of the sick.