MDLT 120 Lecture 1: Introduction to Medical Laboratory Technology Orientation

Attributes of a Profession

• Vicarious Interest: Professionals act in the best interest of their clients.
• Expert Knowledge: Professionals possess specialized training and skills.
• Autonomous Self-Regulation: Professionals uphold high standards and ethical conduct.

Characteristics of a Professional

• Transfer of Expert Knowledge: Communicating complex information in an understandable way.
• Application of Expert Knowledge: Utilizing skills to solve problems.
• Decision-Making: Balancing professional judgment with client needs.
• Feedback: Seeking and applying feedback for improvement.

Distributive Justice in Healthcare

• Definition: The fair distribution of resources and services in society.
• Key Philosophies:
  • Egalitarianism: Equal rights and opportunities for all.
  • Libertarianism: Rewards based on merit, with minimal government interference.
  • Utilitarianism: Focuses on the greatest good for the majority.

Professionalism

• Conducting oneself with ethical behavior and competence in the workplace.
• Key Attributes:
  • Communication Skills: Clear and respectful communication.
  • Appearance: Professional dress and hygiene.
  • Reliability: Being dependable and meeting deadlines.
  • Team Orientation: Working collaboratively and respecting diverse opinions.
  • Problem-Solving: Managing unexpected challenges.
  • Compassion: Understanding and responding to others’ emotions.
  • Adaptability: Adjusting to changes effectively.
  • Resourcefulness: Finding innovative solutions.
  • Confidence: Belief in one’s abilities.
  • Motivation: Inspiring oneself and others.
  • Multitasking & Time Management: Handling multiple responsibilities efficiently.

Transfer of Expert Knowledge

• Plain Language Myth: Simplifying information doesn’t mean reducing intelligence.
• Importance: Medical professionals should ensure clear communication so patients understand their conditions and treatments.

Theories of Distributive Justice

• Fairness: Equal rights and opportunities.
• Utilitarianism: Decisions should benefit the majority.
• Egalitarianism: Everyone should have equal access to resources.
• Liberty Principle: All individuals should have equal basic rights and freedoms.

Philosophical Perspectives on Society

• Anti-Monarchism: Advocates for democracy and opposes inherited political power.
• One Person, One Vote: Ensures equal electoral power.
• Marxism: Critiques class structures and supports wealth redistribution.
• Universal Healthcare: Advocates for equal healthcare access.
• Land Reform: Promotes equitable land distribution.
• Equal Media Representation: Encourages fair portrayal of diverse groups.

Libertarianism Key Concepts

• Individualism: Personal freedom and responsibility.
• Individual Rights: Life, liberty, and property are inherent.
• Spontaneous Order: Society self-organizes without excessive control.
• Rule of Law: Fair laws protect freedom without government overreach.
• Limited Government: Restricts government power to protect individual freedoms.
• Free Markets: Economic prosperity through voluntary exchanges.
• Virtue of Production: People should keep the wealth they generate.
• Natural Harmony of Interests: Economic cooperation benefits society.
• Peace: War disrupts economic and social stability.