RESUMO
RATIONALE: The principle of inseparability of teaching, academic research and assistance to patients, to which university physicians are subject in carrying out their work, invites reflection, aimed at identifying a combination of the three activities characterised, at the same time, by efficiency and effectiveness. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: The present paper illustrates a paradigm based on the balance of intrinsic and extrinsic motivations with the purpose of identifying an efficient solution in the performance of the duties of university doctors. METHODS: The analysis refers to Italy in terms of the main scenario, or, conversely, the achievement of more profit-related goals. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Depending on the prevailing goal, it is possible to recognise the superiority of the constitutional principles.
