The Royal College of Physicians of London, an EPHA member, recently published a report entitled “Doctors in society: Medical professionalism in a changing world”. This publication is compiled by a Working Party, and describes the nature and role of medical professionalism at a time when the healthcare system is undergoing enourmous change.
Whilst a lack of professionalism is harmful to patient care, the political and cultural environment of health can hamper its exercise. The proposed entry of multiple healthcare providers, the wish for a more equal engagement between patients and professionals, and the burgeoning contribution of science to clinical practice, all impact on medical professionalism. These were among the factors that provided the impetus for the redefinition and description of medical professionalism set out in this report.
The report’s definition and description have implications across the whole spectrum of medicine. However, six major themes emerged where medical professionalism will have significant implications. These are:
leadership,
team working,
education,
career pathways,
appraisal, and
research.
Each of these themes carries recommendations directed to national agencies with an essential part to play in taking them forward. If acted upon the report’s recommendations are likely to produce a climate in which medical professionalism can flourish both for the benefit of patients and the public, and for those involved in the provision and delivery of healthcare in the UK.
