RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL Student Essay Scholarship by  Mary LaCroix Perfusion Student Rush University Chicago, IL Medical professional is a term we are often referred as; yet, we only reflect on its meaning in an academic scope.  Professionalism is synonymous with integrity and perseverance.  To me, integrity means rules, values, and commitment, and is the foundation for our character, and our character is reflected by how we present ourselves in and outside of our work environment.  Therefore, one of our responsibilities to be even considered a medical professional is to have the highest level of character in the medical community and outside of it.  We should be a positive influence on our peers and a role model for our family and friends.   Being a professional in today's world requires many other responsibilities.  Due to constant changes in medical research, healthcare reform and technological advances, medical professionals should be adaptive and committed to pursuing a lifelong career in research and development.  We should be participating in the voting process on laws that govern medical practices and management.  As medical professionals we must have memberships and be active participants in our professional organizations.  By joining these organizations we can be better informed on important topics that affect our career fields and access how to improve our scope of knowledge.  Research involvement to improve or enhance methods and procedures used within our field must be practiced.  Research should be based on the idea "for the benefit of the patient."  Most importantly, as a medical professional we should never be complacent in our education and in our careers.  We do not stop learning once we are given a certificate; our education must be a lifelong process and commitment.   Our responsibilities also fall outside the realm of the medical community.  It is up to us to participate and outreach to the communities in which we live.  We must be active in giving "something back to our community"; by doing this, we allow our communities to prosper and establish strong bonds with its residents.  As role models, we must touch the lives of those all around us.   As a medical professional we embrace many responsibilities.  Through lifelong commitment we can strive to make our lives and the lives of others better.  Perseverance is what truly aids our character in continually striving to make a difference in such a demanding work environment.  With perseverance and professionalism we enter a lifelong partnership to help mold and shape our medical community more so. Home | Officers | Forum | Newsletters | Links | Registration | Feedback