Attributes of Professionalism

VTCSOM Attributes of Professionalism

Commitment to Engaged Learning: acknowledges primary responsibility for successful completion of the degree; demonstrates commitment to her/his own professional competence; punctual; attends required classes, clinics, or other required events; limits technology usage in the learning environment to activity directly related to the topic being discussed; seeks additional knowledge and skills; seeks feedback; willing to assist other learners.

Compassion: considerate; displays empathy; listens attentively and responds humanely to the needs of patients; treats patients and families with dignity.

Conscientiousness: takes initiative; is flexible; delegates effectively; accepts personal responsibility for mistakes; asks for help when needed; maintains accurate information in patient records; discloses medical error when appropriate.

Respect: respectful of peers, faculty, staff, patients, and families; respects privacy and confidentiality.

Self-Awareness: fosters continued professional development; demonstrates emotional intelligence; maintains appropriate boundaries with patients and colleagues; avoids inappropriate sharing of health information of others; recognizes position as a role model for others.

Self-Care: maintains personal health and hygiene; seeks advice, counsel, or tutoring when recommended by others; avoids harmful behaviors; avoids inappropriate remarks; adheres to local dress codes.

Sense of Duty: completes assigned duties; sets and achieves realistic goals; follows policies; responds promptly when called; is detail-oriented; accepts inconvenience in meeting the needs of patients; volunteers one’s skills and expertise for the welfare of the community; seeks active roles in organizations.

Social Responsibility: demonstrates an unselfish regard for others (altruism); advocates for quality in the care of patients recognizes and addresses the social determinants of health as applies to patients and communities; advocates for reducing disparities in health care; understands the threats to medical professionalism posed by conflicts of interest. 

Teamwork: works well with others; adheres to polices on authorship of documents; inspires trust; is respectful of different socioeconomic backgrounds and cultural traditions; is sensitive to team member needs; respects authority; provides honest, respectful feedback.

Trustworthiness: displays honesty and ethical behaviors in all academic pursuits including study and research; is honest in interactions with patients, peers, and the community; does not report private academic information of other students.