WK1 discussion HP 111
HP111: W1D
What Drives Us?
Before we get into the details about healthcare and its systems, let’s start at the
beginning. We all bring history, sometimes a lot of history, into any discussion. College
is a place to question some of those ingrained beliefs, listen to different points of view,
and grow. Outside of your profession, you get to be…you. In the U.S. you have the right
to free speech, free beliefs, and inalienable rights. Those can be as individual as you
are.
Inside your profession that is not quite true. Inside your profession you must incorporate
the professional ethics for your area, regulatory mandates, and represent your employer
in the fashion they determine is correct. Each of us must make peace with this or find a
profession without this requirement. To make peace, you need to understand what your
beliefs are. Healthcare is first and foremost a profession dedicated to people. Not just
some people. Not just those people we personally consider ‘worthy’.
All people.
If this is a concept you cannot get behind, find another profession. Everyone, including
you, will be better off.
“The idea that some lives matter
less is the root of all that is wrong
with the world.” – Dr. Paul Farmer, PIH
co-founder
1Partners is Health (PIH) is a global initiative dedicated to providing healthcare to all. The
most fundamental belief for healthcare workers regardless of specialty, is found in that
statement above. We all must be dedicated to the provision of the best healthcare
possible for everyone.
Explore what your beliefs are about healthcare.
Include the following aspects in the discussion:
• Share your feelings about these four foundational principles the Partners in
Health support.
• Why do you think poverty is a determinant of health?
• Discuss if healthcare should be provided for all citizens and if so, who will pick up
the bill.
• Cite any references. Proper grammar, sentence structure, and spelling is
required. Use your own words.
