Explain The Ethical Concepts In The Optometry Code Of Ethics
Ethical concepts in the Optometry Code of Conduct and Code of Ethics
Introduction
Ethics is often defined as good deeds, but this may not always stem from human virtue and goodness but rather out of the sense of duty. In healthcare, ethical principles helps to generate guidelines to assist practitioners in their management options and justification on how their decisions have led to certain outcomes [1]. This paper will discuss the fundamental ethical principles in the optometry practice including beneficence, non-maleficence, respect for autonomy and justice. Additional principles that will also be discussed are confidentiality, protection of the vulnerable and collegiality.
Beneficence
Beneficence is a moral obligation to act in the best …show more content…
An optometrist must conduct a thorough assessment of the patient, taking into consideration of their psychological, social and cultural standing; before formulating a treatment plan to resolve their presenting complaint (section 1.1). Beneficence is also reflected whereby the optometrist must recognise the limit in their scope of practice and therefore, appropriately referring the patient in the best interest of the patient (sections 1.1, 1.2). In saying that, the optometrist must maintain adequate and up-to-date knowledge and skills to provide care based on the best available information (sections 1.2, 6.2). Under many circumstances, there are ocular conditions that are incurable and progressively worsens over time (e.g. glaucoma, AMD). Therefore, in the patient’s best interest, the focus should be on alleviating any symptoms that they are currently experiencing as well as recommending ways to stop the progressive nature of the disease from worsening (section 1.2). Furthermore, if a patient chooses to change optometrist, it would be beneficial to have a summary of their record sent to their new healthcare provider upon request (according to the Patient’s Right Charter)
Introduction
Ethics is often defined as good deeds, but this may not always stem from human virtue and goodness but rather out of the sense of duty. In healthcare, ethical principles helps to generate guidelines to assist practitioners in their management options and justification on how their decisions have led to certain outcomes [1]. This paper will discuss the fundamental ethical principles in the optometry practice including beneficence, non-maleficence, respect for autonomy and justice. Additional principles that will also be discussed are confidentiality, protection of the vulnerable and collegiality.
Beneficence
Beneficence is a moral obligation to act in the best …show more content…
An optometrist must conduct a thorough assessment of the patient, taking into consideration of their psychological, social and cultural standing; before formulating a treatment plan to resolve their presenting complaint (section 1.1). Beneficence is also reflected whereby the optometrist must recognise the limit in their scope of practice and therefore, appropriately referring the patient in the best interest of the patient (sections 1.1, 1.2). In saying that, the optometrist must maintain adequate and up-to-date knowledge and skills to provide care based on the best available information (sections 1.2, 6.2). Under many circumstances, there are ocular conditions that are incurable and progressively worsens over time (e.g. glaucoma, AMD). Therefore, in the patient’s best interest, the focus should be on alleviating any symptoms that they are currently experiencing as well as recommending ways to stop the progressive nature of the disease from worsening (section 1.2). Furthermore, if a patient chooses to change optometrist, it would be beneficial to have a summary of their record sent to their new healthcare provider upon request (according to the Patient’s Right Charter)