Accountability as a virtue in medicine: from theory to practice

John R. Peteet, Charlotte V. O. Witvliet, Gerrit Glas*, Benjamin W. Frush

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

Accountability is a norm basic to several aspects of medical practice. We explore here the benefits of a more explicit focus on the virtue of accountability, which as distinct from the state of being held accountable, entails both welcoming responsibility to others and welcoming input from others. Practicing accountably can limit moral distress caused by institutional pressures on the doctor patient relationship. Fostering a mindset that is welcoming rather than resistant to feedback is critical to enhancing a culture of learning. Analysis of failures of accountable practice offers opportunities for improving the delivery of clinical care.
Original languageEnglish
Article number1
JournalPhilosophy, ethics, and humanities in medicine : PEHM
Volume18
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Dec 2023
Externally publishedYes

Cite this