"We are symbols, and inhabit symbols." - Ralph Waldo Emerson, Poet and Essayist (1803-1882)

The Symbol The symbol of The Patient Promise aims to represent the major themes embedded within the oath. One motif that emerged was that many of the key words and foundational concepts of The Patient Promise begin with the letter “P”: Patient Promise Healthcare Professional:     Practitioner, Provider, Physician Partnership Preventive Medicine Health Promotion Since “P” is also the most anthropomorphic of the letters, facing two Ps towards each other conceptually represents a conversation between the Patient and the Healthcare Professional. Symmetry is important because The Patient Promise emphasizes the need for the Patient and Healthcare Professional to view each other as equals in their pursuit of healthier lifestyles. Finally, the Ps are interlocked to symbolize the renewed sense of partnership moving forward.