Accountability as a virtue in medicine: from theory to practice
John R. Peteet, Charlotte vanOyen Witvliet, Gerrit Glas, Benjamin W. Frush
Abstract
Accountability is a norm basic to several aspects of medical practice. We explore here the benefits of a more explicit focus on the virtue of accountability, which as distinct from the state of being held accountable, entails both welcoming responsibility to others and welcoming input from others. Practicing accountably can limit moral distress caused by institutional pressures on the doctor patient relationship. Fostering a mindset that is welcoming rather than resistant to feedback is critical to enhancing a culture of learning. Analysis of failures of accountable practice offers opportunities for improving the delivery of clinical care.
Topics & Concepts
AccountabilityMindsetVirtueNorm (philosophy)State (computer science)Public relationsSociologyPsychologyPolitical scienceEngineering ethicsEpistemologyLawPhilosophyComputer scienceAlgorithmEngineeringEthics in medical practiceInnovations in Medical EducationPatient-Provider Communication in Healthcare