"They liked it if you said you cried": how medical students perceive the teaching of professionalism

To the Editor: The article by Birden and Usherwood1 presents a very limited view of professionalism, one that is based solely on doctor–patient interactions. Both the focus groups and the authors have failed to discuss the breadth of professionalism that includes a doctor’s relationship with other doctors, allied health, nursing staff and other craft groups. Although made during the focus group interactions the derogatory comment about the “total incompetence” of radiologists and pathologists goes unchallenged, yet this comment is a clear example of unprofessional conduct and demonstrates a profound lack of insight by the focus groups, who, despite poor teaching, believe they have learnt professionalism. Surely this is a point requiring discussion and reflection by the authors?

The students’ belief that different specialties need different professional attributes is also of concern and perhaps suggests the students have not been adequately exposed to a range of specialties. Patient contact is a daily occurrence for radiologists, with many interventional radiologists running their own outpatient clinics and performing ward rounds, while diagnostic radiologists are frequently required to break bad news to patients about diverse conditions — from cancer to failed pregnancy. Unfortunately, the article is a missed opportunity about an important and relevant topic for all doctors, even radiologists and pathologists.