Principles of Medical Professionalism
Gia Merlo
Abstract
<italic>Principles of Medical Professionalism</italic> will inform both future physicians and current practitioners that being a medical professional is not about being perfect, but rather about being human and recognizing our own limitations. The reader can therefore learn to manage their expectations about the profession while becoming more resilient to disruptions in the medical field such as artificial intelligence and the changing patient–doctor relationship. This book takes into consideration challenges to the uniform integration of a formal medical professionalism curriculum and addresses the critical need for support of practitioners’ professional development and identity formation throughout the various stages and transitions in their medical career. Overall, each chapter of this book aims to challenge the reader to engage in a process of self-reflection using the framework of the Gibb’s reflective cycle and provides health professionals of all levels with practical tools and techniques that will allow them to become more competent caregivers and leaders in their field. Indeed, the ultimate goal of the book is to encourage a medical educational framework supporting personal and professional transformation that may lead to more resilient and happier physicians. Thus, physicians may be better equipped to attend to the tasks of patient care that incorporate attention to healing, caring, and, compassion, while upholding their duty to serve the patient and society.