It means relating to each other and providing services in a manner that demonstrates an understanding of and a sensitivity and concern for each person s individuality and importance. Commitment means dedication an a promise to work hard to do all that we can to provide service to our co-workers and our patients that is in accordance with the highest principles and ethics governing the conduct of the healthcare professions and public services. It is a pledge to assume personal responsibility for our individual and collective actions. Compassion means demonstrating empathy and caring in all that we say and do. It means sharing in the emotions and feelings of our co-workers, our patients and their families, and all others with whom we are involved.
Excellence means being exceptionally good and of the highest quality.
It means being the most competent and the finest in everything we do. It also means continually improving what we do. Gulf War veterans, their families, and other concerned individuals who observe VA healthcare staff performing their job in a manner that does not reflect these five core values are encouraged to immediately report these incidents to the Medical Center Patient Advocate. A review will be initiated and any necessary corrective action taken as soon as possible. For information about the Patient Advocate Program, see the next article.