Professionalism: an ideal to be sustained : The ideal of the professional spans three centuries, originating in the 19th century. During the 20th century, some of the values and obligations of the profession were neglected and serious questions were posed as to whether professionalism constituted a proper basis for the organisation of the delivery of health care. As we enter the 21st century, the concept seems not only to have survived but also to be once more endorsed, albeit in renewed form. This renewal should build on the morality and altruism of the original concept, and these qualities should be transferred to the new processes through which the profession is held accountable to society. As medicine negotiates a new understanding with society, the preservation of the ideals of professionalism, which serve as the basis of trust, is of great importance. Professionals should show that professionalism is a benefit to society. For this to occur they should meet their obligations. The stakes are high, as adequate health care for the public is inconceivable without a committed medical profession, and physicians cannot function effectively as healers without the trust of the patient and society.
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