Paternalism, risk and patient choice

Article Abstract:

Dentists must try to avoid acting in a paternalistic manner when considering a patient's request for treatment. Some patients may demand a certain treatment that the dentist might not recommend. However, the dentist has no right to force any unwanted action on the patient. The dentist may believe that treatment will have no benefit and might possible be harmful. However, if the patient has spent much time thinking about the desired action and is aware of the consequences, the dentist should respect the patient's wishes.

Analysis, Autonomy (Psychology), Paternalism

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"Is the customer always right?"(Opinion)(Column)

Article Abstract:

Nurses can play an important unbiased role in facilitating a balance between a patient's health care needs and rights. Social changes beginning in the 1970's and recent trends in medical structuring have subtly shifted the patients', nurses', and doctors' roles to resemble more closely those found in business transactions. Patients, however, may not always have the medical knowledge to make informed choices about their medical care nor should doctors always make treatment decisions without consulting the patient.

Column, Medical care, Terminology

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Marketing with a patient focus

Article Abstract:

Dentists can look within their practices and at the surrounding community to collect information for use in marketing their services. Knowing what makes a practice special or unique, as well as its weaknesses, is important. Understanding the people in the community and perceptions of the dental practice helps in planning a marketing effort. Growing the practice among existing patients is the best source of new business. Soliciting new patients can be added later.

Methods, Marketing, Cover Story, Dentistry

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