Le patient expert, le patient ressource, le patient aidant ou tutoriel… Qui est-il ? Un nouveau professionnel de santé ? Quel rôle peut-il jouer ? Exercera-t-il un contre-pouvoir s'il possède « le » savoir ?

The question of the expert patient comes up often in discussions about the therapeutic education. It is based and reflects the commitment of associations of patients to become stakeholders in the care given to patients. It bears witness to a desire of health democracy which promotes sharing from decisions between patients and health care professionals. However, it shall not underestimate subjective investment of patient for his fellow men. Indeed, the question of the distance is paramount; it is probably easier for health care professional than for a patient.