Lesson 4: Ethics

Summary

Vicki's conversation may seem a little exaggerated, but it is surprising how quickly personal experience comes to mind when dealing with client questions.

Remember, personal anecdotes are never appropriate when working in a health information setting. There is too high a risk of giving misinformation leading to unfortunate and harmful misunderstandings.

Set the tone at the beginning of the conversation with a client by identifying yourself as a WHIC volunteer, and offering assistance using the Center's information resources. Notice how Valerie always mentions the information resources.

If the client asks for an explanation or interpretation of the information you find, use another resource with a simpler explanation or use a medical dictionary.

Practice saying the following statement, and use it!

"As a volunteer at the WHIC, my role is to help you find information to inform your health care decision making. Only your healthcare provider has enough knowledge of your individual condition to be able to assist you with interpreting information and making decisions."

Ethics
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