Internertional Association for Healthcare Security and Safety (IAHSS) Advanced Officer Certification Practice Exam

Which is a key characteristic of a "Professional Patient"?

1. Only seeks medical attention when necessary

2. Frequently requests multiple procedures

3. Is honest about their medical history

4. Seeks out various healthcare providers

The correct answer is: Seeks out various healthcare providers

A key characteristic of a "Professional Patient" is their tendency to seek out various healthcare providers. This behavior often stems from a strategic approach to their healthcare management, where they may believe that consulting multiple providers can yield a more comprehensive understanding of their health issues or lead to more varied treatments. Professional Patients are typically knowledgeable about the healthcare system and its intricacies, allowing them to navigate between different healthcare providers effectively. This option highlights the proactive nature of these patients in managing their healthcare, as they are not solely reliant on a single provider or institution. Instead, they actively look for specialized care that aligns with their health needs, which can sometimes lead to better outcomes, but also complicates care coordination. In this context, the other choices do not encapsulate the essence of a "Professional Patient" as effectively. For instance, while seeking medical attention only when necessary indicates a level of prudence, it does not reflect the adaptive strategies of a Professional Patient. Similarly, frequently requesting multiple procedures or being honest about medical history, while important traits, do not primarily define the overarching characteristic of actively seeking diverse healthcare providers.