UWI Cave Hill MBBS Graduates Embrace Hippocratic Oath in Momentous Ceremony
02 August 2024
The UWI Cave Hill MBBS Class of 2024
Having recited the Hippocratic Oath, a time-honored tradition for medical graduates, over 40 newly minted physicians-in-waiting are poised to formally take up duties as doctors. The Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) Class of 2024 of The University of the West Indies, Cave Hill campus participated in an Oath Taking Ceremony on July 30. The Oath, a rite of passage for medical professionals symbolizes their commitment to ethical medical practices and compassionate patient care, serving as a solemn promise to uphold the highest standards of integrity, confidentiality and professionalism in the field of medicine.
Acknowledging the students’ transition from education to practical application, Director of Medical Services at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH), Mr. Anthony Harris, told them: "You have been educated in medicine, but now comes your training in medicine. Now you take responsibility for the actual practice of medicine. How you react to your patients is the real art of medicine. That’s the true integrity of the profession.”
Among those addressing the brief ceremony at the QEH auditorium was Cave Hill’s Principal, Professor R. Clive Landis who underscored the high-quality of the University’s medical programme and the rigour of its quality assurance assessment.
Dean of the UWI Faculty of Medical Sciences at Cave Hill, Dr. Damian Cohall urged the students to let their passion for the vocation direct them. He encouraged them to be guided by empathy and medical ethics, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and improvement in their clinical skills.
"Remember that it is your love for the profession that has gotten you this far! As the old adage by Hippocrates states, ‘Wherever the art of medicine is loved, there is also a love for humanity.’ Recall that patient care is priority and should be the central basis for practicing medicine," he said.
Vice President of the Medical Students Association, Joshua Grant-Desir told the graduands: "The world of medicine is ever-evolving, and as new doctors, you are the torchbearers of innovation and progress. Stay curious, stay humble, and remain committed to lifelong learning. Collaborate with your colleagues, share your knowledge, and contribute to the advancement of medicine." He also stressed the importance of securing their well-being while meeting the demands of global health challenges.
Head of the Department of Clinical, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Dr. Paula Michele Lashley who led the graduands in the recitation of the Hippocratic Oath provided insight into its historical significance and enduring relevance. "Although in this modern age it may not address all the realities of the modern world, the oath promises competence, integrity, candor, personal commitment to the patients’ best interests, compassion, discretion, and confidentiality within the law," she stated.
The celebration of dedication and achievement was streamed live on the campus’ YouTube channel, allowing friends, family and well-wishers to join in the momentous occasion.
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