Medical Professionalism Essay

Understanding the foundation and application of medical professionalism is very critical to the development of a healthcare professional’s medical career. As stated by Merriam-Webster, medical professionalism is defined as the conduct, aims, or qualities that characterize or mark a medical professional. In addition, privilege is an important characteristic related to medical professionalism. Privilege is a right or benefit that is given to some, but not others, and a special opportunity to do something that makes someone proud, which can also be used as an advantage that the wealthy and powerful have over others in a society. Privilege and medicine are often overlooked and undermined by those in practice, but it is important acknowledge as it can be troublesome when professionals forget their role in the field. As students, residents, and eventually physicians, medical professionalism will be imperative. The main branches that build the foundation of medical professionalism include professionalism, cultural competence, and ethical decision making. Becoming a good medical professional starts from day one, even as a medical student. …show more content…
The Principles of Ethics include nonmaleficence, beneficence, autonomy, and justice. Nonmaleficence is the act of doing no harm, which is a foundational saying in medicine otherwise known as “first do no harm” or “primum non nocere” in Latin. Beneficence is the act of doing good, demonstrating kindness, and showing compassion to help others. Autonomy is self rule because each individual has the right to make their own decisions. Justice is the obligation to be fair in distribution of benefits and risks and treat persons in similar situations similarly. The medical profession is virtually subscribed to these principles in order to ensure professional and patient