[To strengthen patient's own power and to counteract oppressive forces: Empowerment in a medical perspective].

The aim of this article is to describe the empowerment concept in a medical perspective. The concept originated as a reaction to the oppression of groups and individuals in the USA. Later it was introduced in relation to health promotion. Empowerment implies counteracting oppression of groups and individuals, and being conscious of different positions of power. The concept can be used to describe a goal and a process, as well as a strategy. It implies both the mobilisation of the patient's own power, as well as counteracting oppressive forces. It is concluded that empowerment is particularly important for the most disempowered patients (for instance people who have been given a psychiatric label). Empowerment in the health services is a relevant strategy to achieve fundamental changes in the control and influence of powerless groups, and thereby reduce inequality in health.