Advances in Medical Ethics
Open Access

Abstract

The Ethics of Dishonesty in Medicine: ?Assuming Risk? and Navigating the Road to Redemption

Mohammad Salhab*

Dishonesty in medicine poses significant challenges to the integrity of the profession and the trust essential to the doctor-patient relationship. This article explores the ethical dimensions of dishonesty in medical practice, drawing on philosophical principles from deontology, consequentialism, and virtue ethics. It examines the importance of honesty and integrity in healthcare, the nature and consequences of dishonest actions, and the ethical implications of dishonesty in a doctor's personal life. The article argues that personal and professional integrity are deeply intertwined, and personal transgressions can have significant spillover effects on clinical practice. Through an examination of real-world cases and empirical research, the article highlights the complex factors contributing to dishonest behaviour, including individual psychology, situational pressures, and institutional culture. It emphasises the erosion of trust and potential for harm resulting from dishonesty. The article then explores the steps for rebuilding trust and demonstrating a commitment to integrity after engaging in dishonest behaviour, providing practical guidance for navigating the road to professional redemption. Engaging with counterarguments and alternative perspectives, the article offers a nuanced analysis of the ethical issues at stake. It concludes by reaffirming the central importance of honesty and integrity in medicine and calling for a renewed commitment to these values at all levels of the healthcare system. This article contributes to the literature on medical ethics by providing a comprehensive and philosophically grounded analysis of dishonesty in healthcare, offering valuable insights and practical recommendations for addressing this complex issue and promoting a culture of integrity in medicine.

Published Date: 2025-03-28; Received Date: 2024-06-05