ICC 7001: The Physician's Oath

ICC week was capped off by a ceremony honoring residents who were nominated by medical students for their exceptional humanism in the manner in which they practice medicine. Just like honoring rising fourth-year medical students during the White Coat ceremony, this is another example of leading by example: this ceremony was meant in part to show me what kind of doctor I should strive to be.

At the end of the ceremony, as per tradition, we all recited the Physician's Oath:

I swear to fulfill, to the best of my ability and judgment, this covenant:

I will educate my fellow humans so they may avoid illness, and whenever possible, I will prevent disease in the recognition that prevention is far better than cure.

I will counsel my patients to the best of my ability, and apprise them of all medical and social options, my own personal biases aside.

The health of my patient will be my first consideration, and I will apply for the benefit of the sick, all measure that are required.

I will recognize the privilege and art of medicine, maintaining that warmth, sympathy, and understanding may outweigh medicine's scientific interventions.

I will practice my profession with conscience and dignity, and I will maintain the honor and the noble traditions of the medical profession.

I will uphold and promote ethical conduct with my profession.

I will respect the sanctity of the patient-physician relationship, keeping those confidences entrusted to me.

I will recognize my limitations, and I will not hesitate to call upon my colleagues when the skills of another are needed.

I will give to my teachers the respect and gratitude that is their due, and I will help teach my colleagues and future generations of physicians.

I will be dedicated to medicine and my community. I will be true to myself, my family, and those close to me. I will celebrate this gift of life, as I help others.

-- Anonymous