Professionalism reflects to the concept of a Profession and the characteristics commonly associated with the Professional person. As a doctor there are minimum expectations of us by the patients. These characteristics together forms the foundation of doctor-patient relationship of TRUST & RESPECT. We should have a particular set of skills in our chosen field at a level to be considered as an expert. These skills are acquired through learning, knowledge, training and practice of the relevant skills. Knowledge, skills, communication, and attitude should be demonstrated by qualifications/ accreditation and praise-worthy practice. The expertise should be maintained by ongoing learning/CPD & appraisal i.e. Revalidation. As professionals we are expected to have the ability and dedication to achieve certain standards in our work that is acceptable by our peers. We should work and behave in a manner that is appropriate to the nature of our profession i.e. gain respectability; In medicine this includes good standards of personal appearance, appropriate communication and personal conduct i.e. attributes that should confirm to a patient as of acceptable standards. We should do what is right when expected by the law and this should be based on ethical and moral compass and should be a matter of personal pride. Professionalism should include honoring commitments and keeping promises as key aspects of responsibility and reliability. We should ensure that tasks and duties are completed and addressed by taking the initiative and leading by example; because lack of immediate attention to one’s duties can be the difference between life and death. Probity is a corner stone of a Professional i.e. Good, Honest, Upright personality, Fair, law abiding and of general good character. Central trust is placed in a medical professional and we should uphold this reputation by our actions. Our actions should be seen as being appropriate and proper by the public and fellow professionals. Professionals should respect the authority and the rule of law and maintain that when managing/ employing others. We should be courteous and should respect the rights, dignity and autonomy of others. We should take pride in doing a job well by paying attention to detail and by taking personal responsibility for our actions and the consequences. As professionals we need to develop and improve our skills and not be satisfied with substandard results – we should seek to put things right. We should acknowledge mistakes, learn from them and take appropriate steps to prevent recurrence.

We should show respect for those who consult us in a professional capacity. We can capture the essential virtues of Professionalism with seven Cs; Commitment, Concern, Communication, Compassion, Command respect by knowledge, skills and behavior, Call for team-work and Continued Care. Professional organizations should take responsibility in setting good practice guidelines for their members to exhibit individual and collective Professionalism to improve mutual trust and respect. Examples to demonstrate individual and institutional Professionalism will be discussed by reflecting on illustrative cases.