Professionalism in any workplace is very important. Any employer would like an employee who exhibits characteristics of professionalism because they know that the employee can be relied upon. It is most likely that a professional employee will be given opportunities for advancement and growth because he is responsible and can take on additional responsibilities.
In the health information management field, professionalism is of utmost importance. The handling of health information requires that one have the competence and skill to manage the electronic health records available. Professionalism in this area requires that the person is aware of the confidentiality of the data that he holds. It should be exhibited in how they collect, store, analyze and manage the health information within the system. Professionalism in the healthcare information management also means that the employees should adhere to a set of ethical rules and standards observed by the members of the profession. Meeting patient’s expectations and distributing finite resources fairly are some of the issues that a professional in the healthcare industry should learn.
If a person is to exhibit professionalism in the workplace, there are several things which he needs to do. Among these is that he should always be willing to help others because it shows that one is dependable and willing to take on additional responsibilities. One should never complain if additional jobs are given to him. Second, one must not be afraid to ask questions. Asking questions means that one is interested to learn and is enthusiastic about his job. Third, one should treat any job given to him as a full-time employment because it gives positive feedback to the employer. The job must be taken seriously even if it is only temporary because it can be the basis for becoming a permanent employee.
Professionalism in the workplace can be seen by the way one handles himself and the way he relates with his superiors, subordinates and other co-workers at any given circumstance. It is therefore necessary, that every employee realize that it is not only his output that counts but his overall attitude at work, his professionalism.
References
Mechanic, D. (2008). Rethinking medical professionalism: The role of information technology and practice innovations. The Milbank Quarterly, 327-358.
