ABOS Professionalism
The American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery’s guidelines on Professional Behavior, Respect, Compassion, and Responsibility are listed below. Professionalism is demonstrated in practice by behaviors that reflect responsibility and accountability for care of patients, including:
- Behavior and attitude that is respectful, compassionate, honest, and displays integrity in dealing with patients, other professionals, healthcare systems, and payers.
- Respect and commitment to honoring the rights of patients regarding their medical and surgical care, including shared decisions and the right to privacy.
- Empathy and compassion in caring for patient and family needs, while maintaining appropriate doctor-patient relationships.
- Honesty and integrity in communication and interaction with patients, placing the well-being of the patient foremost in disclosing information and recommending treatment.
- Utilization of appropriate professional standards regarding critique of care received by previous providers. Accepts responsibility for one’s own actions. Respects the opinions of others. Provides constructive and objective criticism in the provision of medical care and education.
- Fulfillment of the obligations of the medical profession contained in the social contract. These include providing care for ill or injured patients regardless of personal characteristics or ability to pay. The skills and abilities of the surgeon must benefit and meet the needs of society.
- Demonstration of integrity in interactions with other professionals in the medical, legal, and governmental community. Demonstrates honesty in providing expert testimony, consulting, royalty and speaking agreements, media presentations, research, and publications.
