Deprofessionalization in medicine. What is it? What risks does it
create? Does it eliminate the original profession? A professional is
one whose occupation “maintains a monopoly over a theoretical base
of knowledge” Kritzer (2001). A professional also has the expectation
of autonomy in day-to-day work and an expectation of service to
others above self-interest and the obligation to uphold ethical duties
(DeCamp, 2021). Medicine and dentistry have always been
considered a profession, but several specific developments are
creating a loss of those unique occupational qualities resulting in
deprofessionalism (Kritzer, 2001).
a a Changing practice dynamics that place a greater emphasis on the
business aspects of medicine/ dentistry, the compartmentalization of
knowledge, and the increased use of tools to apply knowledge are
pushing deprofessionalization in medicine/ dentistry.
Compartmentalization of knowledge comes thru the use of auxiliaries
like PAs and NPs and LPNs and CNAs and DTs. These changes are
meant to achieve better patient outcomes and reduce costs
(DeCamp, 2021) and can be seen as a natural development. a
However, these same dynamics can create challenges for physicians/
dentists as they attempt to have dual loyalty to their employers/
health systems and their patients.
a a Trust is the foundation of the patient-provider relationship. It is
based on expertise, competence, honesty, transparency, and good
intentions. Efficiency and productivity and value-based care are
important, but they are secondary to serving the needs of the patient
(DeCamp, 2021). This is where, despite the push to deprofessionalize
medicine, the original profession must not be lost. Physicians/
dentists have an individual and collective obligation to uphold their
ethical duties that may conflict with other goals and practices
(DeCamp, 2021). It is this sense of professionalism, clinical integrity,
and motivation of service to others that must be the guide for their
actions to preserve the patient-provider relationship and be a voice
for their patients above all else.
References:
DeCamp, M. (2021). Ethical and professionalism implications of
physician employment and healthcare business practices. Annals of
Internal Medicine. Retrieved February 28, 2022, from
https://doi.org/10.7326/M20-7093
Kritzer, H. (2015). Deprofessionalization and post-professionalism .
ScienceDirect.com | Science, health and medical journals, full text
articles and books. Retrieved February 28, 2022, from
https://www.sciencedirect.com/
