The patient-doctor relationship has changed in recent years. Patients are gradually becoming actors in their own health, in their own care, as they gain access to medical knowledge. This raises a number of thorny issues. Indeed, where does medical care begin--especially the specific role of healthcare professionals? Who should take responsibility for patient education, and who should hold to account for possible mistakes in self-medication? Profound changes in attitudes are needed to help patients become actors in their own health.