Unethical Practices of Medical Practitioners

Abstract

"Before discussing unethical practices, it is very important to understand what an ethical practice or behavior means. An ethical behavior is characterized by honesty, fairness and equity in interpersonal, professional and academic relationships and in research and scholarly activities. Ethical behavior respects the dignity, diversity and rights of individuals and groups of people [1] . A deviation from this behavior can be termed as unethical. The distinction between ethical and unethical becomes particularly important in context of health care providers especially medical practitioners as their decisions have direct implications on their patients and their families. The medical profession was considered the noblest profession, but this is now seemingly being more of a myth then a reality. Nowadays, medical practitioners are involved in many practices that do not conform to accepted standards of social or professional ethical behavior. What leads to this diversion from the actual ethical practices by doctors is surely something to be thought upon. "