Assignment Module 1 Medical Ethics
Assignment Module 1 Medical Ethics
Treatment after consultation occurs when a primary physician or general practitioner refers a
patient to a specialist for further examination or advice. After the consultation, the primary
physician uses the specialist’s insights to refine or adjust the patient's treatment plan. This
approach:
2. Disciplinary Action
Disciplinary action refers to formal steps taken by regulatory bodies or medical boards to
address violations of professional standards, ethics, or legal regulations by healthcare
professionals. Disciplinary actions are implemented to maintain trust in the healthcare system
and ensure patient safety. Key aspects include:
Due Process: Physicians subject to disciplinary action typically have the right to a fair
review process, where they can present their side of the case.
Purpose: Disciplinary actions uphold ethical standards, protect patients from harm, and
reinforce accountability within the medical field.
Disciplinary action acts as a safeguard, helping maintain public trust in healthcare providers and
ensuring compliance with ethical standards.
3. Public Agenda
The public agenda in healthcare consists of priority issues that the public and policymakers
deem crucial to address for societal welfare. These issues are driven by community needs,
current health challenges, and the goal of improving public health outcomes. Components
include:
Health Policy Priorities: These could range from addressing chronic diseases like
diabetes and hypertension to tackling mental health crises or infectious disease outbreaks.
Public Health Initiatives: Programs focused on vaccination, maternal and child health,
smoking cessation, and healthy lifestyle promotion are often top agenda items.
Resource Allocation: The public agenda guides where funding and resources are
directed, ensuring that critical health issues receive the attention they require.
A clear public agenda helps policymakers prioritize resources, enact relevant health policies, and
support initiatives that protect and improve population health.
Promoting Health Equity: Physicians have a duty to advocate for fair access to
healthcare for all populations, especially underserved groups. This may involve
volunteering, supporting policies that reduce health disparities, and offering pro bono
services when possible.
These duties underscore a physician’s role not only as a caregiver but as a responsible member of
society committed to advancing public health and maintaining high ethical standards.
When a primary physician refers a patient to a specialist, they do so to ensure that the patient
receives specialized care that goes beyond the primary physician’s expertise. This process
involves:
Clear Communication: The primary physician should explain to the patient why the
referral is necessary, what to expect, and how it will contribute to their care. This helps
manage patient expectations and ensures they understand the purpose of the referral.
o Consultation Fees: Outline specialist fees and whether they are covered by
insurance.
Properly managing referrals enhances patient trust, ensures transparency, and contributes to a
collaborative approach in complex healthcare cases, promoting better health outcomes.