This reflection paper presents a healthcare administrator's analysis of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) ethics self-assessment. The author examines areas of consistent ethical strength — particularly in patient-centered care, dignity, and cultural respect — alongside acknowledged weaknesses in proactively promoting ethical discussion and community engagement. The paper also explores the relationship between personal, organizational, and global ethics, arguing that all three share the same foundational principle: treating others with honesty, transparency, and respect. The author concludes with a personal action plan for growth in ethical leadership and communication within their organization.
Taking the ACHE ethics self-assessment did not end up telling me much about myself that I did not already know, but it made my ethical considerations stand out in sharp relief. Reviewing my responses confirmed patterns I had long sensed but never formally examined — both in the areas where I consistently act with strong ethical conviction and in the areas where I fall short of the standards I hold for myself.
I was not surprised to find that almost every item concerning the patient — from quality of care to respect of culture to family interactions — had been marked with an "Always." People are the reason I entered the healthcare industry in the first place; treating them ethically is the only way to do what I do and still find meaning in it. The financial realities of the healthcare industry do not always allow me to provide the level of care and service I would like to extend, but I treat every patient with respect and ensure they receive the best care possible within the highest degree of comfort their condition allows.
My ethical weaknesses were of equally little surprise. I tend to be non-confrontational in situations where I do not perceive an immediate practical problem, so I am liable to let things go rather than persistently push for perfection. As a result, the assessment items regarding how often I promoted ethical behaviors, led ethical discussions, or instigated policy changes received answers of "Occasionally" and "Almost never."
If I observed clearly unethical behavior, I would be very quick to address it and suggest ways in which conduct could be improved. However, issues that do not affect patient care and do not appear to be troubling anyone are ones I am liable to let slide. This pattern does not extend to serious ethical concerns: I am quick to voice concerns regarding the competency of any individual, whether in a medical or administrative role, and I always do so in a respectful and constructive manner. Nor would I ever allow unethical behavior to endanger a patient's well-being, regardless of the cost of the conflict.
"Action plan to speak out and engage community more"
"Golden Rule connects all three levels of ethics"
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