Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Medical Ethics and its Principles

In any field or profession, there should be principles and ethics that should be followed as cardinal rule. The medical profession has long subscribed to a body of ethical statements developed primarily for the benefit of the patients/clients. A physician must recognize responsibility not only to patients, but also to the society, to other health professionals and to himself. These ethics are not laws, but standards of conduct which define the essentials of honorable behavior for all professionals.

A Physician shall;
  •  be dedicated to provide competent  medical services with compassion and respect for human dignity.
  • deal honestly with patients and colleagues, and strive to expose those physicians deficient in character or competence, or who engage in fraud or deception.
  • respect the rights of patients, colleagues and other health professionals and safeguard patient confidences within the constraints of the law.
  • continue to study, apply and advance scientific knowledge, make relevant  information available to patients, colleagues and the public. Obtain consultation and use the talents of other health professionals when indicated.
  • in the provision of appropriate patient care, except in emergencies, be free to choose whom to serve, with whom to associate and the environment in which to provide medical services.
  • recognize a responsibility to participate in the activities contributing to an improved community.
If your physician or doctors, do not apply or use these ethics, you can have them reprimanded or you can have their license canceled. But most of the time, Physicians are following these ethics. 

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