PROFESSIONALISM OF HEALTHCARE PRACTITIONERS

A profession requires acquisition and application of a body of knowledge and technical skills. The individuals in a profession are bound together by a shared commitment. Members of a profession regulate themselves. In health care, health practitioners regulate themselves through state medical boards, as well as hospital committees and other peer-review groups. Those in the profession practice it in agreement with a code of ethics. Finally, a profession has a contract with society.

Health care has been the prevention, care and treatment of diseases not forgetting the aspect of the professionalism. Professionalism is defined as the skill, competence, or character expected of a member of a highly trained profession. It is also the use of professionals instead of amateurs.                                                                                 

In healthcare, professionalism addresses the special skills and attitudes that a worker must possess to be recognized as a healthcare professional. The health profession is to heal. In a patient encounter, they consider a right and good healing action for that patient in his or her particular circumstance. A right healing action is one informed by the scientific and clinical evidence. A good action, in contrast, takes into account the patient's values and preferences and is consistent with the physician's own clinical judgment.

With professionalism, everything matters. From one’s overall appearance to professional use of equipment. The use of personal protective equipment should be used appropriately when necessary. Some personal equipment such as lab coats, goggles, gloves, face masks and so on are important.

Now, how is professionalism in Ghana perceived at health centers? How best do they behave? Do they observe the right hygiene in respect to washing of hands?

Some health workers on their way back from an immunization assignment

Professionalism in Health care is important because it shapes the public perception of today’s physicians. It also brings people together and helps both the patient and health practitioners get along. Again, patients are satisfied.

Thus, professionalism is an important component in health care delivery. Not only do health practitioners need to make good decisions for patients, but need to apply those decisions in a way that is professional and ultimately helps  patient and the society at large.