Heath care communication ethics are a very interesting and also a really serious topic. Many people don't understand just how much ethics play in health care settings. When I take a step back and think about my experiences at the doctor or other related institutions, my experience has always been very regimented. Small talk at the beginning, not much laughter, and some questions about my health. When thinking about this it is obvious just how structured these ethics need to be.
The chapter begins by discussing how health care ethics "protects and promotes the good of responsive hope and the good of care for the Other" (p.191). In doing so, they discuss the 4 metaphors. These are health care communication, health, responsiveness, and care. I think the idea of health care communication growing into the public sector is great growth for out society. I feel like it helps facilitate our society becoming more open and empathetic towards those who are in need. With health, it is a necessity for us to determine what ones good is actually defined by and what their goals are. Responsiveness is also vital because it gives the patient an idea of a final freedom, or some hope that can help assist them in their difficult time. Lastly, care is important because it shows just how much the employee/employer is willing to make efforts in order to benefit the patient, both mentally and physically.
This chapter shows just how complicated giving adequate care to a patient may be. There are so many different levels that need to be operated in order to give proper treatment. It makes me think about how much more difficult nurses have it. They deal with tons of patients on a given day and need to provide great service. They see it all, and yet they still have to make sure that each patient is cared for and they need to inspire the patient to believe that they are going to help them. This shows just how little we, as patients, actually understand about the services we're being provided with.
I like that you provided a specific example of health care communication ethics in a doctor's office setting. This is what I initially assumed health care communication ethics was going to be about, however I now see that it goes deeper than a health care setting and can be seen anywhere, anytime, and at any level. I believe that overall health is composed of physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional traits.
ReplyDeleteThe book states that "Health care communication ethics is a call to responsibility defined not by demand or acquiescence, but by responsiveness" (p. 195). Then continues to state that is not about finding answers or cures to "fix" ill health (p. 195), but rather respond in a more meaningful way; with care. So, its not all about providing medicine to a patient or even necessarily treating them right; it is caring for the ultimate good of their health.
When I read your post I couldn't help but think the same way, I remember the hospital or doctors office always being very professional. Nobody laughs, rarely smiling and strictly business. I also agree with your statement, "Lastly, care is important because it shows just how much the employee/employer is willing to make efforts in order to benefit the patient, both mentally and physically."
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