Why Pull the Arrow When You Cannot See the Target? Framing Professionalism Goals in Medical Education

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Professionalism in Medicine

Background:

• Professionalism is a cornerstone of effective physician-patient relationships.
• It is a vital component of medical training across all levels.
• Current challenges include defining educational outcomes and assessment methods for professionalism.

Purpose of the Study:

• To refine the vision of professionalism in medical education.
• To propose a structured approach for defining professionalism's educational endpoints.

Main Methods:

• This invited commentary focuses on actionable strategies for medical educators.
• It proposes a multistep process involving key stakeholders.

Main Results:

• A clear articulation of professionalism's educational endpoints is needed.
• A collaborative approach is essential for defining these endpoints.

Conclusions:

• Engaging learners, educators, and the public is key to defining professionalism education.
• A refined vision and clear endpoints will improve professionalism assessment in medical training.