Organized medicine has sanctioned the foundation of a union to level the playing field with HMOs and PPOs and so on. Probably so, although the merits of this remain to be seen. But as we all know, money talks and patients opt for a cheaper treatment plan regardless of the treating doctor. However, some diseases may have a drastic effect on how we treat patients. The advent of AIDS has left an indelible mark on the way we practice.
Ethics is an area of great concern.
The longer you live, the more you are aware of the fact that in this world, right is not always right, and wrong is not always wrong. This is the etiology of some of our ethical dilemmas. It is our ethical responsibility as professionals to be fair and kind, and to render the best treatment that our talents allow. During the next century, I see the Academy continuing to grow. Our diversity and internationality will increase.