Question

What are the desirable and undesirable characteristics of each, if any, and why do you think so? Include the ideas of philanthropy, proficiency, loyalty and responsive obligation in your answer. 1- code 2- contract 3- Covenant and Consent as a Canon of Loyalty

Answer 1

1. Code

Undesirable characteristics:

• There is a conflict that exist within the obligation whether to guide or to maintain patience
• Concern for colleagues more than that towards patients

Desirable characteristics:

• Proficiency is on technical grounds
• Solidarity among members
• Duties are carried out through philanthropic acts

2. Contract

Undesirable characteristics:

• Limitation to practice based on contract, thus minimalise the scope
• Unable to respond to any untoward event which is not mentioned in contract
• Maximum number of investigations are carried out so as to protect the physician from litigations
• Receipient of care has no freedom to make any change in the contract

Desirable characteristics:

• Informed consent is a characteristic feature
• Members are motivated by self interest

3. Covenant

Undesirable characteristics:

• There is no such rules or litigations to practice the duties and responsibilities
• It is too idealistic to work as physician at all times

Desirable characteristics:

• Practice with truth and be faithful to the patient
• Being sincere and honest with the patient (loyalty)
• Proficiency based on knowledge and skills
• Philanthropy could be applied
• Save the life of a patient in emergency without any litigations
• Maintain professional responsibility and accountability

4. Consent

Undesirable characteristics:

• Opacity of consent
• Legal issues if inadequate or missing information
• Not based on philanthropy

Desirable characteristics:

• It protects the patient's autonomy
• It denotes loyalty and fidelity
• Proficiency in medical laws and excellent communication skills