<p><strong>Aim<br /></strong> To describe experiences, feelings and reactions of general practitioners (GPs) to the very first patient gift in the career, considering the impact on physician-patient relation (PPR). <br /><strong>Methods</strong> <br />A representative sample of the Croatian GPs (N=265) filled in a supervised paper-based, researcher-led questionnaire. The response rate was 95.7%. Three independent analysts coded and analysed respondents' descriptions. The results were analysed using the descriptive statistics, χ²-test, and φ-coefficient of correlation. <br /><strong>Results<br /></strong> The GPs received the very first patient's gift (FG) already as students (2.6%), during internship (41.5%), and at the latest after being a doctor for one year. After 2-42 years of practice, 95.1% of GPs described their FGs. Typical gifts were coffee and/or sweets (66%). Dominant feeling of GPs on receiving the FG was discomfort (33%); only 22% felt good; just 26% reacted with composure. The outcome regarding the physician-patient relationship (PPR) ranged from the debacle (9%), through mutual discomfort (13%) or a routine reaction (38%), to smiles and mutual pleasure (40%). In 18% they tried to behave properly, considering the patient's best interest, despite their own discomfort. In 29% of cases, the patient took the role of teacher, supporting the young physician. The PPR was not improved in 3/5 of cases where the FG was described. <strong>Conclusion<br /></strong> Receiving the FG is an impressive and deeply touching event, remembered many years afterwards. Without prior instructions, Croatian GPs mostly reacted in a confused manner. The missed opportunity of improving PPR in 60%, and patients' help instead of teachers' suggest the need for education.</p>

This report describes a (rare) situation when a patient's first gift to a young doctor was in money. This happened in very specific circumstances - in a refugee camp during the War in Croatia. The data are taken from a large study on gifts, conducted on a representative sample of Croatian general practitioners (GPs), N = 265, from 2358 in total. Pro and contra factors are discussed, considering tradition and customs, but also a lack of knowledge of young doctors in handling gifts in general. The intention of this report is primarily educative, with review of (scarce) literature, and recommendations, where the generally accepted rules might have exceptions.