Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Patient Perspectives: Four Pillars Of Professionalism, Laura Yvonne Bulk, Donna Drynan, Sue Murphy, Patricia Gerber, Roberta Bezati, Sacha Trivett, Tal Jarus

Patient Experience Journal

Professionalism is a core component of healthcare practice and education; however, there is often not a consistent description of professionalism, and current definitions lack a key perspective: that of the patient. This study aimed to deepen understandings of patients’ perspectives on how professionalism should be enacted by healthcare providers. Using a phenomenological approach informed by constructivist theory, the study team conducted semi-structured interviews and focus groups with 21 patients to ascertain their views on professionalism. Data analysis was conducted using a constant comparative approach wherein initial analysis informed subsequent data collection. Participant themes fell into four pillars of professionalism: taking …