Healthcare Ethics and Responsibilities

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

Which of the following best describes the primary focus of the National Core Standards?

Increasing the number of healthcare facilities

Streamlining administrative procedures

Enhancing patient rights and safety (correct)

Reducing healthcare costs

What is a critical component emphasized in the ethics of care?

Maximizing utility for the majority

Focusing solely on clinical outcomes

Applying rigid rules and duties

Prioritizing the needs of individuals and families (correct)

In the context of self-reflection, what does self-awareness allow individuals to do?

Attract more patients

Avoid all mistakes

Impress peers with knowledge

Learn from both mistakes and successes (correct)

Which guideline helps in resolving ethical dilemmas in medical practice?

CASE study scenarios Signup and view all the answers

What aspect is prioritized under Patient Safety in the National Core Standards?

Balancing clinical risk management Signup and view all the answers

What is considered part of the 6 Priorities regarding facilities and infrastructure?

Cleanliness and availability of resources Signup and view all the answers

Which ethical theory predominantly influences decisions concerning rights and duties in society?

Deontology Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a component of the SPaRC model?

Governance Signup and view all the answers

Which principle obliges health professionals to act in a manner that brings about good in all actions?

Beneficence Signup and view all the answers

What does the principle of autonomy emphasize in healthcare?

Respecting the decisions made by individuals regarding their own lives Signup and view all the answers

What ethical perspective is characterized by its emphasis on relationships and emotional-based virtues?

Care Ethics Signup and view all the answers

What is the main obligation under the principle of justice?

To provide others with what they are owed or deserve Signup and view all the answers

In which ethical theory is the idea that a person is interdependent and relational emphasized?

Care Ethics Signup and view all the answers

What does non-maleficence primarily require from health professionals?

To avoid causing harm intentionally Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of Care Ethics as described in the content?

Emphasis on rational decision-making Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of traditional ethical theories is criticized in the discussion of Care Ethics?

The focus on independence and self-interest Signup and view all the answers

What does the concept of social justice primarily focus on?

The distribution of wealth and resources in society Signup and view all the answers

Which principle focuses on the attributes a professional should exemplify?

Good person Signup and view all the answers

In the context of ethics, how would a virtue ethicist likely respond to Batman's dilemma about killing the Joker?

Focus on how Batman would feel about becoming a killer Signup and view all the answers

What is crucial for successful interprofessional practice?

Understanding the roles of different professions Signup and view all the answers

Which key principle would a healthcare professional emphasize to ensure ethical decision-making?

Social Justice Signup and view all the answers

How do utilitarian ethicists view Batman’s potential choice to kill the Joker?

It is a possible justification based on outcomes Signup and view all the answers

What does interprofessional education aim to achieve in the healthcare sector?

Creation of a collaborative and practice-ready healthcare workforce Signup and view all the answers

Which ethical response would a deontologist support in Batman's decision to kill the Joker?

Moral laws prohibit killing regardless of outcomes Signup and view all the answers

What does the bio-psycho social model proposed by George L Engel primarily aim to explain?

The interactions between the physical and mental states. Signup and view all the answers

Human ecology is best described as a study of what relationship?

The relationship between humans and their environment. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of person-environment relationship is characterized by mutual benefit and support?

Give-give relations. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential result of pathogenic imbalances in the human-environment relationship?

Increased susceptibility to diseases. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'environmental health' primarily emphasize?

The health effects of the physico-chemical environment. Signup and view all the answers

What primarily influences the diffusion of agriculture, technology, and ideas according to the Continental Axis Theory?

The continent's axis orientation Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is categorized as an ultimate factor affecting the broad pattern of history?

Food surpluses Signup and view all the answers

In the Medical Ecology Model, which aspect is considered to provide benefits related to eco-health perspectives?

Environmental Ethics Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is a characteristic of the ExoSystem?

Industry Signup and view all the answers

Which reason distinguishes why the North-South axis differs from the East-West axis in terms of development?

Presence of physical barriers Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a proximate factor underlying historical patterns according to the provided content?

Epidemic diseases Signup and view all the answers

How do climatic zones impact the agricultural development of societies according to the Continental Axis Theory?

They vary more on the North-South axis than the East-West axis. Signup and view all the answers

What role does 'environmental determinism' play in the context of individual development?

It influences local politics and community interactions. Signup and view all the answers

What is primarily emphasized in the ethics of care within medical practice?

Establishing a caring environment for patients Signup and view all the answers

Which standard is focused on ensuring the safety and rights of patients in healthcare?

Patient rights Signup and view all the answers

How do traditional ethical theories typically view society?

As composed entirely of autonomous, rational individuals Signup and view all the answers

What psychological growth does self-awareness facilitate in professionals?

An understanding of their success and failure Signup and view all the answers

Which ethical theory is centered on the principle of promoting the greatest good?

Utilitarianism Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of professionalism in healthcare practitioners?

Integrating profession-specific knowledge and skills with patient-centred care Signup and view all the answers

What aspect is NOT included within the priorities related to facilities and infrastructure?

Availability of medicines Signup and view all the answers

Which value is primarily associated with understanding and honoring patients' choices?

Respect Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately reflects the purpose of the Pfulandlela Pledge?

To establish a commitment to patient-centered care Signup and view all the answers

In the context of ethics, care ethics emphasizes what principle?

The importance of relationships and emotional bonds Signup and view all the answers

What does the concept of 'social compact' in a profession imply?

Accountability to societal expectations and ethical standards Signup and view all the answers

Which competency is essential for the effective communication aspect of healthcare?

Ability to convey information empathetically Signup and view all the answers

What does integrity in healthcare practice primarily emphasize?

Honesty and transparency in all interactions Signup and view all the answers

Which principle best exemplifies the idea of 'Empathy in Action' within healthcare values?

Compassion Signup and view all the answers

In the context of values, which statement best defines 'responsibility' in healthcare?

To act in the best interest of patients and uphold ethical standards Signup and view all the answers

How does teamwork contribute to patient care in a healthcare setting?

Fostering collaboration for improved patient outcomes Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the key elements identified for achieving health goals?

Reducing exclusion and social disparities Signup and view all the answers

Which Sustainable Development Goal is directly related to health?

Good health and well-being Signup and view all the answers

Which component is vital in conducting a situational analysis of a community's health?

Demographic assessment Signup and view all the answers

How does Community-Oriented Primary Care (COPC) primarily aim to improve health outcomes?

Through integration of public health principles with primary care Signup and view all the answers

What is an important goal of the public policy reforms in health?

To ensure healthcare services align with public needs. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a necessary step in the situational analysis process?

Cataloging existing healthcare resources Signup and view all the answers

What role does stakeholder participation play in health policy reforms?

It enhances collaboration and effectiveness of health policies. Signup and view all the answers

What does an environmental scan in a situational analysis aim to identify?

Social, economic, and environmental factors impacting health Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of conducting a SWOT analysis in healthcare?

To capitalize on strengths and opportunities while addressing weaknesses and threats Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a role of Provincial Health Departments?

Formulate national health policies Signup and view all the answers

Which skill should healthcare providers focus on to improve patient interactions?

Enhanced empathy and active listening Signup and view all the answers

In the context of personal and professional development, what should healthcare providers reflect on?

Their own attitudes and assumptions regarding patient care Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the situational analysis in healthcare decision-making?

To support evidence-based decision-making Signup and view all the answers

What is a key challenge in patient-centered healthcare interactions?

Balancing time constraints with patient needs Signup and view all the answers

Which category of the LISA tool focuses on the geographical and cultural aspects of a community?

Locality Signup and view all the answers

What aspect is crucial for effective healthcare delivery among various professionals?

Interprofessional collaboration Signup and view all the answers

Which group is responsible for ensuring primary healthcare services at the local level?

Local Municipalities Signup and view all the answers

What does the SWOT tool primarily help healthcare providers to assess?

Internal and external factors impacting health initiatives Signup and view all the answers

Which category in the SWOT analysis represents internal challenges that hinder progress?

Weaknesses Signup and view all the answers

What is one outcome of effectively implementing a SWOT analysis in community health planning?

Enhancing adaptability and resilience in healthcare Signup and view all the answers

Why is understanding stakeholders important in the LISA tool?

To design culturally sensitive health interventions Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of an external factor in a SWOT analysis?

Technological advancements Signup and view all the answers

What role does the 'Activity' category of the LISA tool analyze?

The current health programs and interventions Signup and view all the answers

Which internal attribute is considered a 'Strength' in the SWOT analysis framework?

Strong community engagement Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

CANMEDS

A framework to describe the roles and responsibilities of physicians.
Emphasizes that a physician's role extends beyond the traditional clinical skills to encompass professional, ethical, and leadership responsibilities.

Constitution

Establishes the basic framework of a nation's government.
Defines individual rights.
Outlines the processes for making laws and governing the country.

The Bill of Rights

A document that outlines the basic individual rights and freedoms that are protected by the government.

Patient Rights Charter

A document that sets out the rights of patients in relation to their healthcare.
It can be used to ensure patients are treated with respect and dignity, and that they have a say in their own care.

Pfulandlela Pledge

A pledge written by Wits HS faculty, it emphasizes the importance of a caring and ethical approach to healthcare.

WHO

Stands for the World Health Organization.
A specialized agency of the United Nations that is concerned with international public health.
Focuses on promoting health, preventing disease, and improving the health outcomes of people worldwide.

National Core Standards

Set of standards for clinical practice in a country.
Designed to ensure that healthcare services are delivered safely, effectively, and equitably.

Standard 1: Patient Rights

Patients have rights and privileges related to their health care.
These include the right to informed consent, the right to privacy, and the right to refuse treatment.

Standard 2: Safety, Clinical Risk

Protecting patients from harm through safe practices and procedures.
Minimizing risks associated with medical interventions.
Includes promoting a culture of safety in healthcare settings.

Standard 3: Clinical Support

Providing necessary support services to facilitate effective clinical care.
Includes access to laboratory services, imaging studies, and other diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.

Standard 4: Public Health Services

Ensuring that healthcare services are organized and delivered in a way that promotes the overall health and well-being of the community.
Includes preventive medicine, disease surveillance, and health education.

Standard 5: Leadership & Corporate Governance

Making decisions about clinical processes.
Managing resources effectively in a clinical setting.

Standard 6: Operational Management

Ensuring that healthcare facilities operate efficiently and effectively.

Standard 7: Facilities & Infrastructure

Maintaining safe, clean, and functional healthcare facilities.
Includes infrastructure such as equipment, supplies, and utilities.

6 Priorities

A list of priorities for improving healthcare delivery.

Priority: Patient Safety, Patient Rights: Clinical - Values and Attitudes

Treating patients with dignity and respect.
Demonstrating empathy and compassion.
Making sure patients are comfortable and safe at all times.

Priority: Patient Safety, Patient Rights: Clinical - Waiting Times

Minimizing wait times for appointments, treatments, and procedures.
Ensuring that patients are seen in a timely manner.

Priority: Patient Safety, Patient Rights: Clinical - Cleanliness

Maintaining a clean and hygienic environment for patients.

Priority: Facilities & Infrastructure - Cleanliness

Cleanliness and hygiene are essential to prevent infections.

Priority: Governance & Care - Patient Safety

Ensuring patients are safe from harm.

Priority: Governance & Care - Infection Prevention and Control

Implementing measures to prevent the spread of infections.

Priority: Clinical Support Services - Availability of Medicines & Supplies

Ensuring that patients have access to the medication and medical supplies they need.

Self-Reflection Mandate

Being self-aware helps individuals learn from both successes and mistakes.
Self-care is vital in the healthcare profession. It is important to prioritize well-being to help others effectively.
The SPaRC model is based on a belief that one is capable to learn in real-life situations by engaging in real-life practices. This will develop competence and effectiveness in providing care to others.

Ethics of Care

A way of thinking about ethics that emphasizes the importance of relationships, compassion, and empathy.
Focuses on the care, needs, and well-being of others.

Ethics At Large

Traditional ethical theories often focus on individual autonomy and rational decision-making.

Principalism

A framework for ethical decision-making that emphasizes four key principles:
- Autonomy: Respecting the patient's right to self-determination.
- Beneficence: Acting in the best interests of the patient.
- Non-maleficence: Avoiding harm to the patient.
- Justice: Treating patients fairly and equitably.

Normative Ethics

Deals with questions of what we should do.

Care Ethics

Developed from feminist perspectives, emphasizing the importance of relationships and care in ethical decision-making.
It is often applied in healthcare, education, and other fields.

Premises

Patient-Centredness: The patient is viewed as an individual with unique needs and preferences.
Interdependency of Human Existence: People rely on each other for care and support.

Relationships, Person, and Society

Individuals are relational beings and are shaped by their relationships.
The concept of a self-sufficient, independent individual is often unrealistic.

Does Care = Girly?

Care ethics is not solely associated with women. It is a universal value that is important for people of all genders.

Ethics of Care - Principles

Competency: Possessing the necessary skills and knowledge to provide high-quality care.
Responsibility: Being accountable for actions and decisions.
Advocacy: Supporting the patient's rights and interests.
Care: Providing compassionate and attentive care to patients.
Good person: Demonstrating integrity, honesty, and trustworthiness.
Resource Management: Utilizing resources responsibly and efficiently.
Social Justice: Promoting fairness and equity in the distribution healthcare resources.

Interprofessional Learning and Practice

Working collaboratively across different professions.

Aims of Interprofessional Learning and Practice

Enhance understanding of the roles and responsibilities of healthcare professionals.
Encourage communication and teamwork among healthcare teams.
Promote patient-centered care.

WHO Framework for Interprofessional Practice

A framework for interprofessional practice that emphasizes collaboration and teamwork.
Provides guidance on how to implement interprofessional practice in healthcare settings.

What is Interprofessional Practice?

Collaboration among professionals from different disciplines, including patient and family.

MacroSystem

A broader social context that influences individual behavior and development.

ExoSystem

Refers to institutions and organizations that influence the micro- and mesosystems.

MesoSystem

Deals with the interaction of different microsystems.

MicroSystem

The immediate environment of the individual.

The Continental Axis Theory - Jared Diamond

Explains how the geographical orientation of continents influences the development of human societies.
East-West axes - similar climate zones help spread farming, ideas.
North-South - different climates, barriers.

Factors Underlying Broadest Pattern of History

Ultimate Factors: The east-west axis, suitable wild species, ease of spreading species, domesticated plants and animals.
Proximate Factors: Horses; guns, ships, swords; steel, writing; political organization; epidemic diseases.

Medical Ecology Model

The relationships between humans, pathogens, the environment.
Health and disease outcomes are influenced by the eco-health perspective.
Influenced by environmental ethics, environmental justice, ecosystem services.
Human ecology model is a multiprofessional practice of clinical work.
Focuses on integrating patient health with the overall well-being of the environment.

Integrative Concepts of Health and Disease by Human Ecological Medicine

George L Engel's biopsychosocial model emphasizes the interconnectedness of biological, psychological, and social factors in understanding health and disease.

Human-Environment Relationship and its Variants

The human-environment relationship can be a complex interplay of give and take interactions.
Unbalanced relationships can lead to health issues.
Example of Incan downfall from the Spanish who brought swine flu.

Professional Identity Formation

The core competencies of a healthcare practitioner are defined by the HPCSA/Afrimed/Canmed guidelines framework.
These guidelines help healthcare practitioners integrate knowledge, skills, and professional attitudes in patient-centered care.
The purpose of the session is to help healthcare practitioners identify their professional identity within the framework.

Values

Values are individual beliefs about right and wrong and the principles that guide actions.
Values guide interactions with others.

Professions require specialized training and come with a degree of respect and responsibility.
Healthcare professions have a social compact/expectation to "do no harm."

Privilege and Self-Governance

Healthcare professionals have a responsibility to act in the interests of the profession, even if it means opposing the state.
This responsibility is facilitated by understanding the profession's role and appropriate behavior.

Professional Values

Healthcare professionals should embrace compassion, respect, integrity, professionalism, communication, and teamwork.

The Role of the Healthcare Practitioner

Healthcare practitioners are central to the framework of defining graduate attributes integrating all roles.

Points of Reference for Understanding Role

Guidelines such as Batho Pele Principles, HPCSA guidelines, CANMEDS, Constitution, Bill of Rights, Patient Rights Charter, Pfulandlela Pledge, and WHO all contribute to defining the healthcare practitioner role.

Self-Reflection

Self-awareness is essential for learning from mistakes and successes.
Self-care is crucial for well-being and the ability to help others.

Experience-based Learning: The SPaRC Model

The SPaRC model encompasses Support, Participation, Real Patient Learning, and Capability.
The model emphasizes preparing, experiencing, reflecting, and performing in patient care.