Before Completing The Journal Reflections Please Review Modu ✓ Solved

Before Completing The Journal Reflections Please Review Module 5 Deo

Before completing the journal reflections, please review Module 5: Deontology & Underserved Ethics readings and video (there are 7 of them). Can you please make sure that every reflection has the requested amount of words. Thank you so much! Website: Username: [email protected] Password: Rttdorsey2013$

Journal Reflection #1 Do you believe that there are universal moral laws, i.e. that right and wrong are questions independent of particular circumstances at a given moment? (150 words, 10 points)

Journal Reflection #2 Do you think what is true for you is true for everyone? (150 words; 10 pts)

Journal Reflection #3 What do you think? Is right and wrong universally true, regardless of circumstances? or are there acceptable exceptions? (150 words: 10 pts)

Journal Reflection #4 Why you are entering the health care field? What is your motivation for serving people in this capacity? Where does that motivation come from? (150 words: 10 pts)

Journal Reflection #5 Do you think health care is a human right or privilege? (300 words, 10 pts)

Journal Reflection #6 Discuss how the three case studies discussed in the module show how a person from an underserved population has limited access to health care. What would you do to help an underserved person access health care on a personal level, professional level, and national level? (500 words, 20 pts)

Journal Reflection #7 After watching the video lecture, answer the following question: Why is patient advocacy important? (500 words: 20 pts)

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The ethical landscape of healthcare is profoundly influenced by complex questions surrounding morality, justice, and access. This paper explores the concepts of universal moral laws, personal versus universal truths, and the importance of advocacy within healthcare. Drawing from module readings and videos on deontology and underserved ethics, I analyze these themes through philosophical and practical lenses, emphasizing their relevance in real-world medical settings.

Universal Moral Laws and the Question of Independence

The belief in universal moral laws posits that certain principles of right and wrong exist independently of circumstances or individual perspectives. Immanuel Kant’s deontological ethics supports this view by asserting that moral actions are governed by immutable duties derived from reason (Kant, 1785). For instance, Kant argued that lying is always morally wrong, regardless of context, because honesty is a categorical imperative. This unwavering stance suggests some actions are inherently right or wrong. Conversely, critics argue that moral laws cannot be entirely divorced from context, as cultural and situational nuances often influence ethical judgments (Beauchamp & Childress, 2013). In healthcare, for example, adhering rigidly to universal principles may conflict with patient autonomy or cultural practices, indicating that moral laws, while foundational, require nuanced application when specific circumstances are considered.

Personal Truths and their Universality

The question of whether what is true for one person is true for all taps into subjectivism versus objectivism. Personal truths are shaped by individual experiences, beliefs, and cultural backgrounds, which influence perceptions of morality and reality (Harman, 1977). For example, a patient's decision to refuse treatment based on personal or religious beliefs showcases subjective truth. While respecting personal truths is essential, assuming that what is true for one must be universally accepted neglects the diversity of human experiences. Ethical universality seeks common ground, but it must balance respect for individual perspectives with overarching moral standards, especially when addressing health disparities and marginalized communities.

Universality of Right and Wrong, with Exceptions

There is a debate whether morality is absolute or context-dependent. Ethical absolutists argue that certain acts are always wrong, while relativists believe that moral judgments depend on circumstances and cultural context (Rachels, 2003). For example, euthanasia may be acceptable in some jurisdictions but unethical in others, reflecting acceptable exceptions based on societal values and individual rights. Healthcare professionals often face dilemmas where rigid application of moral laws conflicts with compassionate care. Recognizing acceptable exceptions allows for morally permissible flexibility in complex scenarios, prioritizing patient well-being while maintaining ethical standards.

Motivation for Entering Healthcare

My motivation to enter healthcare stems from a deep desire to serve and improve lives. Personal experiences with family health crises highlighted the importance of compassionate and competent care. I aspire to provide relief, comfort, and advocacy, recognizing the privilege and responsibility of caring for others. This motivation originates from a combination of empathy cultivated through personal relationships and a commitment to social justice, ensuring equitable access to health services for all individuals, especially those marginalized or underserved.

Health Care: Human Right or Privilege?

Access to healthcare is a fundamental debate in medical ethics, with arguments framing it either as a human right or a privilege. Human rights frameworks, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (United Nations, 1948), assert that access to healthcare is essential for the dignity and well-being of every individual. Healthcare as a right emphasizes that society bears responsibility for ensuring equitable access regardless of socioeconomic status, race, or geographic location. Conversely, viewing health services as a privilege suggests that access is dependent on personal means, emphasizing individual responsibility and economic capacity (Danis et al., 2008).

From a moral perspective rooted in justice and equality, healthcare should be considered a human right. Denying or restricting access based on income or social standing perpetuates health disparities and violates basic human dignity. Countries with robust universal healthcare systems exemplify how safeguarding this right results in better overall health outcomes and societal stability (World Health Organization, 2010). Yet, economic constraints and political ideologies challenge the realization of healthcare as an unequivocal right in many regions.

Implementing healthcare as a right requires systemic change: policy reforms for universal coverage, investment in underserved areas, and advocacy for health equity. On a personal level, healthcare professionals must recognize their role in advocating for equitable policies and addressing disparities. Professionally, commitment to culturally competent care and resource allocation is vital. At the national level, legislation that guarantees access is crucial for health justice. Ultimately, viewing healthcare as a human right aligns with principles of fairness, dignity, and social responsibility.

Addressing Healthcare Disparities in Underserved Populations

The case studies illuminate significant barriers faced by underserved populations, including socioeconomic constraints, geographic isolation, and systemic neglect. These barriers limit access to essential health services, resulting in poorer health outcomes and persistent disparities. To address these issues, interventions are needed at the personal, professional, and policy levels.

On a personal level, I would engage in culturally sensitive communication and community outreach to build trust and understanding. Attuning to cultural beliefs and language barriers ensures that health information is accessible and respectful, thereby encouraging engagement with healthcare services. For instance, volunteering in community clinics or participating in health education programs can foster rapport and reduce distrust.

Professionally, advocating for inclusive practices, such as providing language interpreters, flexible clinic hours, and transportation assistance, is essential. Developing partnerships with community organizations can extend outreach and support beyond traditional clinical settings. Training healthcare providers in cultural competence and social determinants of health equips them to deliver equitable care.

At the national level, policy reforms that increase funding for underserved areas, expand Medicaid, and incentivize healthcare providers to serve in rural or impoverished communities are vital. Advocacy efforts should focus on reducing structural inequities through legislation, funding, and public health initiatives. That may include expanding telehealth services to reach rural populations and integrating social services with healthcare delivery.

In conclusion, addressing healthcare access disparities requires a multifaceted approach that combines individual engagement, professional advocacy, and systemic policy change. As a future healthcare provider, I am committed to championing these efforts to ensure equitable health outcomes for underserved populations, recognizing that health is a universal right that must be protected and promoted at every level of society.

Importance of Patient Advocacy

Patient advocacy holds a pivotal role in the healthcare system, serving as a bridge between patients and providers, and ensuring that individuals receive ethical, respectful, and equitable care. Advocacy is especially critical for vulnerable or underserved populations, who often face barriers related to socioeconomic status, cultural differences, language barriers, or systemic neglect.

The significance of patient advocacy lies in its capacity to uphold patient rights, foster trust, and improve health outcomes. Advocates help patients understand their medical conditions and treatment options, facilitating informed decision-making. This is particularly important in complex healthcare settings where patients might feel intimidated or overwhelmed. Effective advocacy involves listening to patient concerns, respecting their values and preferences, and empowering them to participate actively in their care (Unruh et al., 2007).

Moreover, advocacy can address social determinants of health by connecting patients to resources such as housing, transportation, and social services. It also involves speaking on behalf of patients in policy discussions and institutional decision-making to promote systemic changes that reduce disparities. For instance, advocating for policies that expand Medicaid or improve access to mental health services directly benefits underserved communities.

Healthcare professionals, including nurses, social workers, and physicians, have an ethical duty rooted in beneficence and justice to advocate for their patients. Patient advocacy enhances the quality of care, reduces disparities, and promotes equitable health outcomes. It also aligns with foundational ethical principles articulated by Beauchamp and Childress (2013), emphasizing respect for autonomy and justice.

In practice, advocacy involves navigating complex healthcare systems, addressing individual and systemic barriers, and fostering a culture of patient-centered care. Training healthcare providers in advocacy skills, fostering interprofessional collaboration, and supporting institutional policies that prioritize equity are crucial steps. Ultimately, patient advocacy ensures that healthcare remains a human right accessible to all, and that vulnerable populations are protected and empowered.

Conclusion

The exploration of moral law, personal versus universal truths, healthcare as a human right, and the role of advocacy underscores the ethical complexities inherent in healthcare. Recognizing the importance of systemic change, personal responsibility, and professional engagement is essential for fostering an equitable healthcare environment. As future healthcare practitioners, embracing these principles will enable us to serve with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to justice, ensuring that every individual receives the dignity and care they deserve.

References

- Beauchamp, T. L., & Childress, J. F. (2013). Principles of Biomedical Ethics (7th ed.). Oxford University Press.

- Danis, M., Grady, C., & Husted, G. (2008). Improving access to healthcare for vulnerable populations. Hastings Center Report, 38(6), 13-21.

- Harman, G. (1977). The Nature of Morality: An Introduction to Ethical Theory. Oxford University Press.

- Kant, I. (1785). Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals.

- Rachels, J. (2003). The Elements of Moral Philosophy (4th ed.). McGraw-Hill.

- Unruh, L. Y., et al. (2007). Patient advocacy in nursing: A continuum of care. Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 39(2), 138–144.

- United Nations. (1948). Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

- World Health Organization. (2010). The World Health Report: Health systems financing: The path to universal coverage. WHO.