JUN 07, 2021
NEW Rule of the Month:
Ethics address conduct and relate to what behavior is appropriate or inappropriate, as reasonably determined by the entity setting the ethical standards. An issue of ethics in ophthalmology is resolved by the determination that the best interests of patients are served.
Ophthalmologists must act in the best interest of the patient and provide ophthalmologic services with compassion, respect for human dignity, honesty and integrity. Ophthalmologists should adhere to appropriate standards of ethics and professionalism in order to maintain the public’s trust in our profession.
In current medical practice, there are many impediments to practicing in a manner that engenders patient trust including: impairment, improper informed consent, distinguishing between research and patient care, appropriate postoperative management, potentially unnecessary procedures/tests, advertising and competition, conflicts of interest, and the emergence of new technologies. The ophthalmologist is not only expected to be clinically competent in the correct application of clinical knowledge and skills in solving the patient’s medical problem, but is also expected to apply that ability in a way that is cost-effective, efficient, ethical, and sensitive to the patient and to societal and professional imperatives.
The materials and information below are presented for user education and for the development of educational activities.
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