Find a scholarly, peer-reviewed article no more than four years old that discusses an ethical health promotion-related issue. Use the WCU library databases to search for appropriate articles.
In your paper:
Briefly summarize the presented issue.
Describe your thoughts on the role health care professionals should play in resolving the ethical issue.
Provide specific theories and refer to specific ethical codes to support your position.
Sample Answer
Sample Answer
Title: The Role of Health Care Professionals in Addressing Ethical Issues in Health Promotion: A Critical Analysis
Introduction
In the contemporary healthcare landscape, ethical issues related to health promotion have gained significant attention. One such issue revolves around the ethical implications of personalized genetic testing for disease risk assessment. This paper aims to summarize the presented issue, discuss the role health care professionals should play in resolving the ethical dilemma, and provide theoretical frameworks and ethical codes to support this position.
Summary of the Issue
Personalized genetic testing offers individuals insights into their genetic predispositions for certain diseases, allowing for proactive health management. However, concerns arise regarding the potential psychological impact of receiving unfavorable results, privacy and data protection issues, as well as the implications for insurance coverage and employment opportunities. Balancing the benefits of early intervention with the risks of psychological distress and discrimination poses a significant ethical challenge in health promotion practices.
Role of Health Care Professionals
Health care professionals play a crucial role in navigating the ethical complexities of personalized genetic testing. Firstly, they must ensure informed consent, providing comprehensive information about the implications of testing to empower individuals to make autonomous decisions. Secondly, professionals should offer pre- and post-test counseling to address psychological concerns, interpret results accurately, and guide individuals in making lifestyle modifications or seeking further medical interventions based on their genetic risk profiles.
Theoretical Frameworks and Ethical Codes
Health care professionals can draw upon various theoretical frameworks and ethical codes to guide their practice in addressing ethical issues related to health promotion. Utilitarianism emphasizes maximizing overall well-being, suggesting that professionals should prioritize interventions that lead to the greatest benefit with the least harm. Deontological ethics highlights the duty of professionals to respect individual autonomy and uphold principles of beneficence and non-maleficence in decision-making processes.
Additionally, ethical codes such as the American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics underscore the importance of advocating for patient autonomy, promoting informed decision-making, and maintaining confidentiality in genetic testing practices. By adhering to these ethical principles and integrating theoretical frameworks into their practice, health care professionals can navigate the complexities of ethical issues in health promotion effectively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, addressing ethical issues in health promotion, such as those surrounding personalized genetic testing, requires a collaborative effort from health care professionals. By prioritizing patient autonomy, providing comprehensive counseling, and adhering to ethical codes and theoretical frameworks, professionals can navigate the ethical dilemmas inherent in promoting health through genetic testing. Ultimately, upholding ethical standards is essential for ensuring that health promotion practices are conducted in a manner that respects individual rights, promotes well-being, and upholds the integrity of the healthcare profession.
