A principal calling: professionalism and health care services

As heath care professionals, our "product" is clinical service. We demonstrate professionalism by attitudes, knowledge, and behaviors that reflect a multi-faceted approach to the standards, regulations, and principles underlying successful clinical practices. The issues facing practitioners who work in health care environments are complex, forming an infrastructure for conducting clinical and business operations. Issues discussed include: clinical quality and outcomes management; patient safety and medical errors; accreditation and compliance. A thorough knowledge of these topics forms the context within which we integrate our services with the larger health care community. In this age of accountability, inquiry, introspection and integrity are the keys to professionalism.

As a result of this activity, the reader will be able to: (1) discuss basic points related to the complex requirements and issues facing clinical practitioners today; (2) understand the components of "professional" practice within the health care community; (3) integrate quality management, regulatory compliance, and accreditation standards into every clinical practice. Profession: A calling requiring specialized knowledge and often long and intensive academic preparation; a principal calling, vocation, or employment. Professionalism: The conduct, aims, or qualities that characterize or mark a profession or professional person. -Webster's New Collegiate Dictionary.