Professionalism
Physicians share a commitment to professionalism and regulate or govern themselves through peer reviews, hospital committees, and state medical boards. Physicians are also expected to practice in accordance with a code of ethics. Medical students are expected to operate under similar guidelines. Professional misconduct by students has broad implications for the well-being of students, faculty, and staff at the UGA SOM. It is important for students, as physicians in training, to understand that there are many attitudes and behaviors that, although legal, are neither professional nor befitting of a physician. Thus, all medical students at the UGA SOM are expected to consistently conduct themselves in a professional manner, consistent with both UGA and UGA SOM policies.
Dress Code Policy
Students at the UGA School of Medicine are expected to promote and reflect a professional image when engaging with patients and clinical colleagues. This policy sets forth the dress and professional grooming standards necessary to promote a safe patient care environment, foster patient trust, respect, and confidence, and prepare students to assume the role of a professional healthcare worker. This policy is consistent with clinical site partner expectations and has been developed accordingly.
Use of Social Media Policy
The UGA School of Medicine expects all students to use social media and electronic communication in a manner that upholds patient privacy, reflects professional conduct, and protects the integrity of the institution. These standards are in place to ensure that students maintain the trust placed in them as future physicians and representatives of the medical community.
Reporting of Lapses in Professionalism or Mistreatment Concerns
The UGA School of Medicine (UGA SOM) is committed to fostering a safe, supportive, and professional environment in all interactions with colleagues, students, patients, and their families. In accordance with the UGA SOM Professionalism Policy and Student Mistreatment and Learning Environment Policy, the Professionalism and Mistreatment Concerns Form provides a means to report concerns of professionalism, student mistreatment, or other conduct affecting the learning environment.