MDLT 120 Lecture 1 Notes: Introduction to Medical Laboratory Technology Orientation
1. Attributes of a Profession
• Vicarious Interest – Professionals act in the best interest of their clients.
• Expert Knowledge – Professionals have specialized training and skills.
• Autonomous Self-Regulation – Professionals maintain high standards and ethical conduct.
2. Characteristics of a Professional
• Transfer of Expert Knowledge – Communicating complex information in an understandable way.
• Application of Expert Knowledge – Using skills to solve problems.
• Decision-Making – Balancing professional judgment with client needs.
• Feedback – Seeking and applying feedback for improvement.
3. 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.
4. 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 – Believing in one’s abilities.
• Motivation – Inspiring oneself and others.
• Multitasking & Time Management – Handling multiple responsibilities efficiently.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.