Altruism In Healthcare

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The defining characteristic of altruism is often described as self-sacrifice; to behave altruistically, an individual subordinates his or her interest in order to act for others’ benefit. I believe this definition of altruism differs in the context of medicine. Healthcare providers fulfill a special role within our society: physicians, in particular, are committed by a professional and ethical code to the deliver the highest quality of care, and to be accountable for the wellbeing of the patients and communities they serve. The stresses of professional medical practice can exact a great toll on healthcare providers. As physicians, being prepared to renounce self-interest could likely involve the danger ignoring personal health and wellbeing,

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