To me, ethical decision making is knowing that you did what was right by your patient. I realize that it's not always easy, especially when it doesn't seem like anyone is hurt by the decision. I feel that most of the scenarios presented in class were very interesting and was impressed by the answers given by the dentists and hygienists. Here's a new scenario for your consideration:
A classmate treats a patient with about half of her dentition and knowingly charges her the full fee because "she worked hard on her and her insurance would cover it anyway." I hope this person never accepts a position where there are monetary incentives for production. So, my question is: Can ethics be taught or is it something that we just know?
Interesting scenario....It amazes me also how some people can justify their behavior in a pathetic attempt to make what they want to do seem right even they know it is wrong. What they say they would do is not what they do when noone is looking......what may be more sad is the fact they may not even have remorse or carry any sort of conscience whatsoever...I think ethical behavior is carried in the heart and soul and is clearly an understanding that common decency is rewarded without reward...
ReplyDeleteI realize that some ethical situations are easier to deal with than others, and not everything is so clear cut. I was just disappointed and really bothered that this person knowingly overcharged someone to increase her production. Of course, for us, production= good grade. I'm afraid that the decision won't be different when production= more $. The other thing that bothered me was that she freely shared what she had done as if there wasn't anything wrong with it.
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