[The notion of medical responsibility. Current evolution].

Medical responsibility can be evaluated from a penal or a civil standpoint. In the first case it is referable to common law or other specific provisions, notably those included in the laws voted on July 29 1994. In the second case it is viewed within the contractual relationship, since the physician's obligation is theoretically one of means and not of results. The circumstances under which medical responsibility is questioned have evolved under the influence of three factors affecting the medical art: it is now characterized by techniques that have often become scientific; team practice; an increase in patients' demands. Nonetheless it is most important to maintain a genuine relationship of trust between physician and patient.