Medical Ethics

Medical Ethics

Medical ethics refers to the principles and values that guide the conduct of medical professionals and the provision of healthcare.

Hippocratic Oath

The Hippocratic Oath is a pledge traditionally taken by physicians and other healthcare professionals upon graduation from medical school. It is named after the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates, who is considered Western medicine's father.

The oath includes a commitment to upholding ethical standards in the practice of medicine, including a pledge to "do no harm" and to prioritize the patient's well-being above one's own interests. While the original oath has undergone changes over time, many of the principles it espouses are still considered central to the practice of medicine today, such as the responsibilities of the physician to respect patient autonomy and confidentiality, and to provide care to all patients regardless of their ability to pay.

Many modern versions of the oath have been written to adapt to the changing cultural, social, and legal context.

Four Principles of Medical Ethics

1.) Autonomy: Self-governance: the ability of a patient to make a choice based on their own values and beliefs. professionals should respect and support these choices.

2.) Beneficence: the principle of acting in the best interests of the patient and providing care that promotes health and well-being.

3.) Non-maleficence: the principle of "do no harm" and avoiding causing harm to patients.

4.) Justice: the principle of treating all patients fairly and equally, regardless of factors such as race, gender, socioeconomic status, or ability to pay.

These principles are considered essential in providing ethical care and are used as guidelines for making decisions in complex medical situations. They are often used in conjunction with each other, and can sometimes be in tension with one another, requiring careful ethical analysis to make the best decision.

How can I become a better Medical Healthcare Provider?

• Do not blame the sick for being sick.

• Seek to discover your patient’s wishes and comply with them.

• Always be ready to learn, as knowledge is never-ending.

• Work for your patients, not your consultant.

• Respect opinions.

• Treat a patient, not a disease.

• Admit a person, not a diagnosis.

• Spend time with the bereaved and help them to grieve.

• Give the patient (and yourself) time for questions, reflection, and healing.

• Give patients the benefit of the doubt.

• Be optimistic.

• Be kind to yourself, as you are not an inexhaustible resource.

• Question your conscience.

• Tell the truth.

• Recognize that the scientific approach may be finite, but experience and empathy are limitless.

We hope this article helps you understand the basics of Medical Ethics and guides you in making better decisions while caring for your patients.