| Abstract: |
Medical professionalism has been defined as a set of values, behaviors, and relationships that underpin the trust the public has in doctors and is the basis of medicine's contract with society. It means not just knowing how to do your job, but demonstrating a willingness to learn, cooperate and get along with others, showing respect, and living up to commitments. It also means avoiding many kinds of behaviors that cause trouble in the workplace. It may be lacking in individuals with extensive training, high status, and significant financial resources. The American College of Surgeons' Task Force on Professionalism found that professionals possess four core characteristics: specialized knowledge, relative autonomy in practice and the privilege of self-regulation, altruistic service to individuals and society, and responsibility for maintaining and expanding professional knowledge and skills. © 2011 Springer Science + Business Media. |
