Professionalism

1. Professionalism “Always serve the interests of patients above physician’s own self-interest” Alan Chu Chapter 191 April 25, 2012

2. Foundations of successful medical practice • Medical knowledge • Skill • Medical professionalism

3. Decline in medical professionalism • Professionalism programs • Mandatory professionalism modules in medical schools • “medical professionalism” articles 94-04 • ABIM’s “Project Professionalism” program

4. Project Professionalism • Physician accountability • Humanistic qualities • Physician impairment • Professional ethics

5. Professionalism in Medical Organizations • Goals • To promote educational benefits • To promote the advancement of their economic interest • AAOHNS Inc., AAOHNS Foundation • Corporate sponsors serve as sources of revenue • Should be perceived as acting in the public interest, rather than as “doctors’ labor union”

6. Professionalism in your Practice • “do the right thing” vs “do the smart business thing” • “Double agent” – Ludmerer • Commitment to • Competence, honesty, confidentiality, appropriate relations, improving quality, improve access, allocation of resources, scientific knowledge, avoid conflicts of interest, professional responsibility

7. Professionalism and Surgeons • ACS Task Force on Medical Professionalism • Advocate for patients’ needs • Disclose all therapeutic options • Disclose and resolve any conflict of interest • Respect patients’ vulnerability • Disclose any adverse event • Respect cultural and spiritual needs of patients • Care for terminally ill patients • Support the needs of patients’ families • Respect other heathcare professionals