Introduction to Ethics and Law Lecture

Question 1

What is a good doctor?

Answer 1

A privileged position - Doctor’s are regarded as “professionals” by the public and their peers.

Numerous studies show that they remain the most trusted profession despite high profile failings.

Question 2

What are the characteristics of professionalism?

Answer 2

Expertise
Standards
Respectability
Responsibility and reliability
Probity (Honesty)
Conduct

Question 3

What is professionalism?

Answer 3

A professional can be defined as a vocation or calling, especially one involving a degree of skill, learning or science.

Question 4

Who is responsible for regulations in UK medicine?

Answer 4

General Medical Council of Medical Education and Registration
Founded in 1858
Uniformity of Qualifications

Question 5

What does the GMC do?

Answer 5

Setting the standards for doctors
Overseeing doctor’s education and training
Managing the UK medical register
Investigating and acting on concerns about doctors
Helping to raise standards through revalidation
Plan for GMC to regulate Physician Associates

Question 6

Examples of reason for investigation, according to GMC guidance

Answer 6

Criminal convictions or cautions - even when occurs outside of clinical environment
Alcohol consumption that affects clinical work, the work environment or performance
Pattern of excessive misuse of alcohol
Plagiarism
Signing peers into sessions when they are absent

Question 7

What are some challenges for the profession?

Answer 7

Public have access to information/knowledge
Increasing demand/expectation
Ageing population
Budgetary constraints
Embracing new technology whilst being aware of risks