Virtual Mentor. December 2006, Volume 8, Number 12

Ethics Poll

Volunteering abroad: altruism or tourism?

The Ethics Poll is a snapshot of the opinions of interested readers.

Do you think every physician has an ethical imperative to serve at some time as a volunteer among people who are in need of care around the world?
Yes
No

Should study of global health be part of every medical school's required curriculum?
Yes
No

Which of the following most accurately describes your opinion of medical student elective experiences in underserved areas around the world?
Benefits to patients exceed benefits to student learners.
Benefits to patients and learners are well balanced.
Benefits to student learners exceed benefits to patients.

View results
Poll results reflect the opinions of visitors to the site who voluntarily answer the poll questions. Those visitors do not represent a random sample of Virtual Mentor readers. The viewpoints expressed on this site are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the AMA.