Importance Of Professionalism In Healthcare

Professionalism is an ambiguous term with numerous interpretations. In essence, it refers to a collection of attitudes and attributes that every member of a profession is expected to abide by, which include but are not limited to integrity, accountability, respect and compassion. Though important in all occupations, professionalism is particularly paramount in medicine in order to ensure that the most effective care is provided to each and every patient.

Health care providers should exercise integrity with all interactions because trust is such an essential component of the patient-physician relationship. A vulnerable patient that doubts their provider's honesty and moral judgment is at risk of noncompliance and avoidance of further treatment,
which may be detrimental to their health. As professionals, it is equally important that providers hold themselves accountable if, and when, their judgment proves fallible and produces unintended outcomes. Professionalism does not demand perfectionism but rather the ability to recognize mistakes and learn from them so as to limit repeat occurrences in the future.

Along with learning from one's own faults, there are always opportunities to learn from others when an appropriate and professional level of respect is demonstrated. Medicine is a collaborate effort and a professional remains receptive to the opinions and input of others, including that of patients and their families as well as colleagues. Lastly, an especially vital aspect of professionalism is compassion. Medications are not the only and absolute way to improve the wellbeing of others. Lending full attention to a patient or delivering them a smile, touch, or warm blanket can often be just as important as the right prescription. The concept of professionalism is an umbrella that encompasses all of the characteristics of a great physician.