A Helping Hand: The Case for Volunteerism

Medical professionals are often regarded as influential community figures, yet their actual civic engagement may not match these expectations. Physicians certainly have a commitment to their own patients, but principles of medical ethics and professionalism suggest that physicians are also responsible for treating patients who lack access to care. Physician volunteerism is beneficial for entire communities, but can be particularly transformative for uninsured, underinsured, or geographically isolated patients. Volunteerism also yields countless benefits for physicians themselves, including professional development, skill building, and reduction of burnout. Despite evidence for the positive results of volunteerism, some physicians are discouraged by the time commitments, working conditions, and ethical controversies. Yet for interested physicians, diverse opportunities exist in medical and nonmedical activities and domestic and international areas.