The Physician Pledge

September 30, 2021

The quote above by William Osler is one of my favorites. I always felt that medicine is about humanity; spirit, mind and body. We are all more than some of our cells and functions. We are human because inside our body lives a spirit that needs nurturing through faith, love and good deeds.

I came upon Geneva Declaration that reminded me why I went into medicine. I feel that now more than ever these words are needed and we should all take them into our hearts. My duty as a physician is to my patients first and foremost. And I’m grateful for the trust they have given me.

The Physician’s Pledge

AS A MEMBER OF THE MEDICAL PROFESSION:

I SOLEMNLY PLEDGE to dedicate my life to the service of humanity;

THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF MY PATIENT will be my first consideration;

I WILL RESPECT the autonomy and dignity of my patient;

I WILL MAINTAIN the utmost respect for human life;

I WILL NOT PERMIT considerations of age, disease or disability, creed, ethnic origin, gender, nationality, political affiliation, race, sexual orientation, social standing or any other factor to intervene between my duty and my patient;

I WILL RESPECT the secrets that are confided in me, even after the patient has died;

I WILL PRACTISE my profession with conscience and dignity and in accordance with good medical practice;

I WILL FOSTER the honour and noble traditions of the medical profession;

I WILL GIVE to my teachers, colleagues, and students the respect and gratitude that is their due;

I WILL SHARE my medical knowledge for the benefit of the patient and the advancement of healthcare;

I WILL ATTEND TO my own health, well-being, and abilities in order to provide care of the highest standard;

I WILL NOT USE my medical knowledge to violate human rights and civil liberties, even under threat;

I MAKE THESE PROMISES solemnly, freely, and upon my honour.

Kat Lindley D.O. FACOFP

World Medical Association Declaration of Geneva