Commentary: Professionalism (Current Oncology)

Commentary -  Current Oncology

I have been reading medical literature since 1970. I started medical school in 1970, and from then to this present day, I find it shocking how little is written in medical literature and how little education is required about professional behavior.

The doctor–patient relationship—or rather the lack thereof—is a very important factor in litigation. However, that fact should not be the “prime mover” causing practitioners to abide by very high ethical standards. We should not be threatened into professionalism and ethical behavior. Our pride, our professionalism, and our inherent integrity as physicians and surgeons should motivate us. There are few, if any other, professions in which so much emphasis is placed on integrity, honesty, and good relations.

Nothing breeds more contempt and suspicion than a lack of transparency and a perception by patients that “I was not heard” or “My interaction was played down.”

A patient with a very anxious demeanor and four pressing questions went to see a physician. During consultation, the physician took over the conversation and pre-emptively answered the questions that physicians expect the patient to ask. The patient went home with none of the important questions (to that patient) answered.....