What is the term for the unilateral severance of a patient-provider relationship without finding a replacement?

The term for the unilateral severance of a patient-provider relationship without finding a replacement is abandonment. This occurs when a healthcare provider terminates the relationship with a patient without making appropriate arrangements for the patient's ongoing care. It is crucial for providers to ensure that patients are not left without necessary medical support, as this can have serious implications for the patient's health. Abandonment is characterized by failing to adhere to professional standards of care and can lead to legal consequences for the provider, as it undermines the trust that patients place in their healthcare professionals. In contrast, terms like negligence refer to a failure to provide the expected standard of care, unlawfulness pertains to actions that are illegal, and malfeasance involves wrongdoing or improper performance of a lawful act.