As a resident with our program, how would you express your opinions on controversial topics such as abortion, euthanasia, and cloning?

"When it comes to controversial topics such as abortion, euthanasia, and cloning, I will keep my personal opinion to myself, or at the very least, remain diplomatic by expressing how each side has a right to an opinion. If prodded more by a patient, the furthest extent I would go is to discuss the medical pros and cons of each side of any controversial topic and let the patient make their own opinion."

A straightforward answer should include how you would discuss the pros and cons of a controversial topic with a patient. You need to be clear that you would never broach any of these subjects with a patient, but rather only respond when asked.

As a medical resident, my job is to provide the best medical care possible, according to evidence based medicine. My personal views on these topics have no role in this. A patient can express his opinion on these issues, and may do so especially if he feels comfortable with me, but I plan to remain neutral on these topics when in a professional setting.

"My goal is to provide the best care that I can to my patients and I believe personal beliefs should never stand in the way of providing excellent medical care."

"These are indeed very controversial but important topics. However, they should not and do not affect my interactions with colleagues or impact patient care. It is important to respectfully listen to others' opinions empathically and without judgement. This can be difficult sometimes."

"These topics can be challenging to address as people have differing opinions and may be passionate about their viewpoints. While I may have my own opinion, I believe especially in a professional setting, is important to try to remain impartial and to help create an inclusive and welcoming environment where people with differing views feel welcomed. I would want to ensure that all patients, regardless of their views, feel comfortable to receive their care from me, and that my colleagues feel comfortable and accepted when working with me. If it was required to express my opinion, I would do so respectfully, and ensure that it would not obstruct providing high quality care to my patients."

"While I consider myself a very principled person, I am also open to listening to and learning about differing viewpoints. Within a professional setting, I tend to keep my personal opinions on topics unrelated to an issue directly at hand more reserved but I have no problem voicing my opinions on topics I believe are fundamental rights in the appropriate context. I would never engage in debate on any such topics with a patient, but among colleagues making good-faith efforts to understand differing viewpoints I would be open to discussion but never an argument."