Can Asclepius in Mythology Be a Role Model for Today's Physicians?

Abstract

To be a good physician, role models are needed who have the characteristics of a "good physician" and have professional, ethical and professional values. The purpose of this study is to seek an answer to the question of whether history and medical symbols can be used to determine what characteristics a role model has and who should be taken as a role model. In mythology, Asclepius is known as the god of health and healing. When the characteristics of Asclepius with his snake staff, that he brought from history are investigated, we come across the portrait of a physician, who is well-educated, reliable, respected, careful, quick to make decisions, open to innovation, a lifelong learner, and interested in health. In fact, these characteristics are the basic characteristics desired in a "good physician" and are valid for all physicians today, including neuroscientists such as neurologists, neurosurgeons, and neuroradiologists.

Keywords: Asclepius; good physician; symbol of medicine.