Looking Forward Together in an Uncertain Time
Abstract
In times of rapidly evolving societal needs, perceptions, and expectations, collaboration is imperative. Although health professionals today must adapt quickly to new ways of thinking and working, which surgeons are well equipped to do, it is equally vital to uphold enduring shared values. Remembering our commonalities can be challenging, but they are rooted in the Hippocratic oath, a variation of which all physicians take in some form. Such oaths emphasize the importance of listening to patients, families, communities, and colleagues; remembering our own need for care and compassion; and practicing our profession with conscience and dignity. Doing so helps us achieve our shared goal "to heal all with skill and trust," which is both the American College of Surgeons' motto and a common goal for all in medicine.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Empathy and Medical Education
Ethics in medical practice
Healthcare professionals’ stress and burnout
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Journal of the American College of Surgeons
- Publisher
- Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
- Volume
- 242
- Issue
- 5
- Pages
- 1221–1225
- Publication date
- 2 February 2026
- Language
- EN