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Dignity in medicine: the role of humanisation

2 June 2023

Medicine is a field that is inextricably linked with illness, suffering and pain. Patients who visit the doctor often experience strong emotions such as fear, uncertainty and helplessness. In such a situation, it is important that the patient feels treated with respect and dignity.

Humanising medicine is an approach that puts the patient at the centre of medical care. It involves treating the patient as a person and not just as a medical case. This approach preserves the dignity of the patient and treats them with respect and empathy.

Maintaining dignity in the treatment process is particularly important for patients who often experience illness and suffering. For many patients, illness means losing control over their lives and bodies, which can affect their sense of dignity. Humanising medicine allows the patient to retain a sense of control over their life and body. A doctor who treats the patient with respect and empathy allows the patient to express their needs and preferences, which allows them to maintain their sense of control.

The humanisation of medicine also allows for a better understanding of the patient and his or her needs. A doctor who is able to listen to the patient and respond empathetically to his or her needs creates a sense of, security and understanding for the patient, which translates into the entire treatment process.

In the humanistic approach, the doctor treats the patient with respect and empathy, which allows a positive relationship to be built between doctor and patient. Such positive relationships allow the patient to maintain his or her dignity and sense of worth. A patient who feels that he or she is treated with respect and empathy may feel more confident and less confused.

The humanisation of medicine also allows for a better understanding of the psychological aspects of illness. Patients often experience strong emotions, such as fear, uncertainty and helplessness, associated with illness.

Maintaining dignity in medicine is not only important for patients, but also for medical staff. Medical staff who work in an environment where patients are treated with respect and empathy feel greater job satisfaction and experience less of the stress associated with working in medicine. As a result, medical staff can take better care of their own mental and physical health, which has a positive impact on their efficiency at work.

It is worth emphasising that the humanisation of medicine is not only an approach based on empathy and respect, but also on professionalism and ethics. A doctor who treats a patient with respect and empathy must also adhere to ethical principles and maintain professionalism in his or her work. This allows the patient to feel safe and trust the doctor.