On the practice of medicine

The physician takes care of people’s life.
He is placed at the head of the hundred arts and crafts, sitting with equal footing of the premier and minister.
It is the art of humanity.
One should not look down on the physician as practicing the little dao, only integrated with no false character, tranquil and serene, can a person discuss the subject of medicine.
Those who enter my gate should know that the distress of others is also mine.
No delay should be allowed on a call from a patient.
Do not ask if the patient is noble or poor.
Always keep in heart the saving of life.
The mouth should not cease reciting the medical texts; the hands continuously fiddling the hundred of herbs.
Do not be jealous of the knowledge of others.
Do not comment on the attitude of other physicians.
Do not slander the prescriptions of other physicians.
Do not slander the physician who has cared for the patient previously.
Do not slander the prescriptions of other physicians.
Do not cultivate fame.
Do not be greedy of money.
Do not boast of your knowledge and ability.
Do not flatter the powerful and wealthy person; you would rather have your arm broken than bend your back.
To save life is your sole aim, idea, purpose and concern.
If the course of disease is baffling without any sign of improvement; you must with trembling caution wholeheartedly review your diagnosis and treatment.
If you are visited by monks or taoists who wish to pay you, accept not a cent.

Zhong Shan’s Medical Teachings

March 10, 1933
From the diary of Dr. Zhang De Huai   (1895 – 1971)
Oriental Hospital, Deng Zhong, Yunnan