Professionalism

Professionalism is a core competency of medical education and a cornerstone of the profession of medicine. It impacts one’s ability to create rapport with patients, foster patient satisfaction, and enhance the overall well-being of the medical professional. At The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) School of Podiatric Medicine (SOPM), students are expected to maintain the highest standards of professional and ethical conduct. Medical students are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner in interactions not only with patients, but also with peers, faculty, and staff of the UTRGV SOPM and the Rio Grande Valley community.

Concerns or commendations about student professional behavior may arise from (a) faculty with whom a student interacts during a module or clerkship or (b) another faculty member, house staff member, staff member, student, or patient with whom the student interacts. These individuals are expected to report their concerns or commendations using the Early Concern Note or the Commendation Note. (UTRGV SOPM Student Professionalism Policy EAA081)

Early Concern Note

There may be times when a student's actions suggest a lapse in professionalism. In instances such as those, please fill out and submit an Early Concern Note. The purpose of the Early Concern Note is to identify students early and help them recognize and improve their concerning behavior.

Commendation Note

There may be times when a student's actions go way above and beyond expectations of professional behavior. In instances such as those, please fill out and submit a Commendation Note. The purpose of the Commendation Note is to recognize and commend exemplary professional behavior of a medical student.