Background

Failing to address unprofessional behavior may promote similar behavior in other individuals and tarnishes the image of the profession. Addressing unprofessional behavior results in higher levels of personal satisfaction, creates better mentors for younger ophthalmologists, and improves patient safety and risk-management experiences. Attendees will learn about issues relating to professionalism and unprofessional behavior, i.e., how to identify and address unprofessional behavior, and what to do about these issues in their own communities. Every physician needs skills for addressing unprofessional/unethical behavior.

The Allan and Claire Jensen, MD Lecture in Professionalism and Ethics was created to present complex ideas about professionalism and ethical behavior in an accessible and relevant format. The selected lecturer will be a recognized ophthalmologist or member of the medical or bioethics community with demonstrated knowledge of ethical issues and professionalism. The lecture takes place at the Academy's Annual Meeting each year. 

• 2017 - Thomas S. Harbin, MD, MBA 
  • Practical Ethics in Ophthalmology
• 2018 - Anne Menke, RN, PhD
  • The Intersection of Ethics and Professional Liability
• 2019 - Anthony J. Aldave, MD
  • Ethical Aspects of Global Ophthalmic Practice
• 2021 - Jerry A. Menikoff, MD, JD
  • Navigating the Confusing World of Research vs. Innovative Treatment: Ethical and Regulatory Issues
• 2022 - Thomas H. Gallagher, MD
  • Professionalism and AccountabilityAfter Harm: Closing the Gap Between Principle and Practice  

The 8th Annual Jensen Ethics Lecture was presented at Academy 2022

Professionalism and Accountability After Harm: Closing the Gap Between Principle and Practice 

• Thomas H. Gallagher, MD/MACP, Professor of Bioethics and Humanities, Univ. of Washington, presented the 2022 Jensen Lecture. 
  
  
  • Dr. Gallagher's lecture included video vignettes discussing the discovery of potential patient harm, how to address a senior colleague whose treatment recommendations may be odds with your own, and how to inform patients that an error has been committed or a pertinent test result overlooked. He also discussed the core principles underlying an accountable response to patient harm and practical techniques to turn these principles into action.