Ethics Case Study

HCS/335
October 7, 2013
Linda Hagler-Reid, MBA

Introduction

Jerry McCall is Dr. William’s office assistant. He has received professional training as both a medical assistant and a Licensed Practicing Nurse (LPN). He is handling all of the phone calls while the receptionist is at lunch. A patient calls and says he must have a prescription refill for Valium, an antidepressant medication, called in right away to his pharmacy, since he is leaving for the airport in thirty minutes. He says that Dr. William’s is a personal friend and always gives him a small supply of Valium when he has to fly. No one except Jerry is in the office at this time. Does Jerry’s medical training qualify him to issue this refill order? Why or why not?
The American Association of Medical Assistants was established in 1955, a decade considered to be the golden age of medicine, as medical research blazed through the first half of the century. Its creed reflects this perception: “I believe in the principles and purposes of the profession of medical assisting. I endeavor to be more effective. I aspire to render greater service. I protect the confidence entrusted to me. I am dedicated to the care and well-being of all people. I am loyal to my employer. I am true to the ethics of my profession. I am strengthened by compassion, courage and faith.” Though medicine’s golden age may be behind it, its ethics remain firmly in place.
Medical assistants serve the public with an ethical obligation to the needs of all. These obligations must exist to foster respect for human dignity because it is morally good to respect patient confidentiality, participate in the well-being of society, and to perform duties with diligence. They must act with courtesy, and in the patient’s best interest.
Jerry McCall is Dr. William’s office assistant and he has been trained as an LPN. He receives a