Describe the common elements you find in at least two medical codes of ethics.
What have YOU found?
physicians must be compassionate, and respectful of patients.
To describe the common elements found in at least two medical codes of ethics, we will analyze the codes of ethics from the American Medical Association (AMA) and the World Medical Association (WMA):
1. Beneficence: Both codes emphasize the principle of beneficence, which refers to the obligation of healthcare professionals to act in the best interests of their patients. This includes providing high-quality care, advocating for patients' well-being, and prioritizing their health and safety.
To find the code of ethics for the AMA:
- Go to the official website of the American Medical Association.
- Search for "Code of Medical Ethics" in the search bar.
- Click on the link that leads to the current version of the code.
To find the code of ethics for the WMA:
- Visit the official website of the World Medical Association.
- Look for the section on medical ethics or codes of ethics.
- Locate the code of ethics document, which may be labeled as "Declaration of Geneva" or the "WMA Declaration of Helsinki."
2. Autonomy: Both codes emphasize respect for patient autonomy, which involves respecting patients' rights to make decisions about their own healthcare. This includes providing accurate information, obtaining informed consent, and respecting patients' choices, even if they differ from the healthcare professional's recommendations.
3. Confidentiality: Both codes stress the importance of maintaining patient confidentiality. Healthcare professionals are obligated to protect the privacy of their patients and maintain the confidentiality of their medical information. Exceptions to this confidentiality must be strictly justified and limited to cases where there is a significant risk of harm to the patient or others.
4. Non-maleficence: Both codes emphasize the principle of non-maleficence, which means "do no harm." Healthcare professionals are required to prioritize patient safety and well-being, avoiding actions that may cause harm. This includes minimizing risks, providing accurate information about potential risks and benefits, and being diligent in ensuring patient safety.
5. Professionalism: Both codes emphasize the importance of professionalism in medical practice. This includes demonstrating competence, integrity, and ethical behavior. Healthcare professionals are expected to maintain their knowledge and skills, act honestly, avoid conflicts of interest, and maintain appropriate relationships with colleagues and patients.
By analyzing the codes of ethics from the American Medical Association and the World Medical Association, we can identify these common elements. However, it is important to note that the specific content and wording of codes of ethics may vary, even while encompassing similar fundamental principles. Therefore, it is always beneficial to consult the official codes of ethics directly for a comprehensive understanding.