PATERNALISM MEDICINE Meaning and
Definition
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Paternalism in medicine refers to the practice where healthcare professionals assume a paternalistic role, making decisions on behalf of their patients without their full informed consent or considering their preferences. This approach is based on the belief that doctors know what is best for their patients and should exercise authority over their medical decisions. Paternalistic medicine often involves physicians making decisions without consulting or involving the patient in the decision-making process.
In this model of care, medical professionals take on the role of a parent figure, acting in the best interest of their patients, as they perceive it to be. They may make decisions to protect the patient from harm, prevent against potential risks, or safeguard public health, even if it compromises the patient's autonomy or preference.
This concept has become increasingly controversial as patients are demanding more involvement in their own healthcare decisions. Critics argue that paternalism in medicine undermines patient autonomy, infringing on their rights to make decisions about their own bodies and medical care. In recent years, there has been a paradigm shift towards patient-centered care, which emphasizes shared decision-making between healthcare professionals and patients, allowing patients to actively participate in their healthcare choices and be better informed. This shift is driven by the acknowledgment that patient values, priorities, and preferences are crucial aspects of delivering high-quality medical care.
Common Misspellings for PATERNALISM MEDICINE
- oaternalism medicine
- laternalism medicine
- 0aternalism medicine
- pzternalism medicine
- psternalism medicine
- pwternalism medicine
- pqternalism medicine
- parernalism medicine
- pafernalism medicine
- pagernalism medicine
- payernalism medicine
- pa6ernalism medicine
- pa5ernalism medicine
- patwrnalism medicine
- patsrnalism medicine
- patdrnalism medicine
- patrrnalism medicine
- pat4rnalism medicine
- pat3rnalism medicine
- pateenalism medicine
Etymology of PATERNALISM MEDICINE
The term "paternalism medicine" combines the words "paternalism" and "medicine".
The word "paternalism" derives from the Latin word "pater", meaning "father". It originally referred to the idea of a father's authority and control over his family or household. In a broader sense, paternalism refers to a system or practice where someone in a position of authority or power takes decisions or acts in a way they believe is in the best interest of others, often without consulting or fully involving those affected.
In the context of medicine, paternalism describes a paternalistic approach to the doctor-patient relationship, where the physician makes decisions regarding the patient's care without their active participation or consideration of their preferences. It involves the belief that the doctor knows what is best for the patient without necessarily exploring the patient's autonomy, desires, or values.
