Dental Ethics PDF

Dental Ethics Professional Ethics Review (Codes of Ethics and the Duality of Dentistry) Dr. Zaid Al-Asadi (Lecture -4-) Introduction Intersections of ethics, legality, and professionalism must be cleared. As future dental professio...

Dental Ethics Professional Ethics Review (Codes of Ethics and the Duality of Dentistry) Dr. Zaid Al-Asadi (Lecture -4-) Introduction Intersections of ethics, legality, and professionalism must be cleared. As future dental professionals, you will frequently grapple with questions surrounding the ethical obligations owed to your patients, the business aspects of your practice, and the broader responsibilities your profession entails. Codes of Ethics in Dentistry The foundation of dental ethics is established by various codes, which outlines principles like patient autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice. These principles guide our practice and decision-making. Key Characteristics of Ethics are: 1. Patient autonomy (self-governance) 2. Non-maleficence (do no harm) 3. Beneficence (do good) 4. Justice (fairness) 5. Veracity (truthfulness) 6. Fidelity 7. Confidentiality. 1. Patient Autonomy (Self-governance) It is based on the principle of respect for persons. Independent actions and choices of an individual should not be constrained by others and they should be respected. The dentist has a duty to respect the patient’s rights to self-determination and confidentiality. Professionals have a duty to treat the patient according to the patient’s needs, within the limits of accepted treatment, and to protect the patient’s confidentiality. The dentist’s primary obligations include involving patients in treatment decisions in a meaningful way, with due consideration being given to the patient’s needs, desires and abilities, and safeguarding the patient’s privacy. Page 1 2. Non-maleficence (Do No Harm) The dentist has a duty to refrain from harming the patient. Professionals have a duty to protect the patient from harm. The dentist’s primary obligations include keeping knowledge and skills current, knowing one’s own limitations and when to refer to a specialist or other professional, and knowing when and under what circumstances delegation of patient care to auxiliaries is appropriate. 3. Beneficence (Do Good) The dentist has a duty to promote the patient’s welfare. This principle expresses the concept that professionals have a duty to act for the benefit of others and the dentist’s primary obligation is service to the patient and the public-at-large. The most important aspect of this obligation is the competent and timely delivery of dental care within the bounds of clinical circumstances presented by the patient, with due consideration being given to the needs, desires and values of the patient. 4. Justice (Fairness) The dentist has a duty to treat people fairly. Principle of truthfulness comprises dentist’s sincerity toward patients, truth telling, never deceiving. This principle expresses the concept that professionals have a duty to be fair in their dealings with patients, colleagues and society and the dentist’s primary obligations include dealing with people justly and delivering dental care without prejudice. Accepting the principle of justice in contemporary ethics is reflected in right to be treated. This right consists of three issues: 1. To be honest with patients 2. To give patients what they deserve 3. To give patients what they have right on. 5. Veracity (Truthfulness) The dentist has a duty to communicate truthfully. This principle expresses the concept that professionals have a duty to be honest and trustworthy in their dealings with people and the dentist’s primary obligations include respecting the position of trust inherent in the dentist-patient relationship, communicating truthfully and without deception, and maintaining intellectual integrity. 6. Fidelity It is the obligation to keep implied or explicit promises. 7. Confidentiality Dental professionals have a legal and ethical duty to keep patient information confidential. Principle of confidentiality means that a dentist must be discrete. Confidentiality comprises preservation of all information concerning patient, his/her diseases and treatment. Significance of confidentiality is in feeling of confidence a Page 2 patient has, in belief that his/her doctor is “silent” despite everything heard or seen. It is the responsibility of dental professionals to treat any information about patients as confidential and only use it in the context in which it was given. Confidential information should be kept in a secure place at all times to prevent unauthorized or accidental disclosure. Legal vs. Ethical: A Complex Relationship The question arises: should we prioritize legality or ethics? While legal standards set the minimum acceptable practices, ethical considerations often demand more. Laws provide a framework to avoid punitive measures. However, adhering strictly to legal standards may not always align with ethical practice. Ethical practice involves a commitment to doing what is right for patients, even if it requires going beyond legal requirements. In situations where legal and ethical obligations conflict the ethical course often leads to better patient outcomes and upholds the integrity of the profession. The ideal approach is to harmonize legal and ethical considerations. Practitioners should aim to exceed legal standards by integrating ethical principles into their practice. Ethical practice enhances patient care, promotes better outcomes, and ultimately builds a more sustainable practice. Obligations to Patients It is vital to recognize that our role extends beyond providing treatment. As dental professionals, we must navigate: - **Informed consent**: Ensuring patients understand their options. - **Patient welfare**: Advocating for the best treatment options. - **Continuing education**: Staying informed about advancements in dentistry. - **Truthfulness**: Providing honest information about treatment outcomes, costs, and potential complications. - **Compassionate Care**: Recognizing the emotional and psychological aspects of patient care and addressing them with empathy and understanding. Page 3  These obligations form the backbone of a trusting patient-provider relationship. Neglecting them can lead to a loss of trust and can harm not just the individual patient but also the profession as a whole. Dentistry as Both a Business and a Profession **A. The Dual Nature of Dentistry** - Dentistry operates within a complex framework where it must function as both a business and a profession. - As a business : dentists must manage finances, marketing, and operational efficiency to ensure sustainability. - As a profession : the focus must remain on ethical practice, patient care, and community service. **B. Finding the Balance** - It is crucial to strike a balance between profitability and ethical obligations. Practices driven solely by profit may compromise patient care, leading to ethical violations. - Ethical business practices can enhance a practice’s reputation, leading to long-term success. - Consider models that prioritize both patient care and business sustainability. For example, implementing transparent pricing structures and avoiding unnecessary treatments can build trust and boost referrals. Conclusion Navigating the complexities of dental ethics demands a commitment to continuous reflection and learning. As you progress in your careers, remember that being a successful dental professional means balancing your responsibilities to your patients with the realities of running a business. Ethical considerations should be at the forefront of your practice, transcending legal obligations. Page 4