Individualism and Collectivism: Impact on Outcome and Effectiveness Research, Policy, and Bariatric Patient Care

Healthcare in the United States is considered individualistic in nature because it tends to focus on the treatment of individuals rather than preventive medicine, which would affect whole segments of the American population. The terms individualism, collectivism, entitlement, and respect for personal autonomy are described within the context of ethically sound outcome research, policy formation, and ultimately how this impacts bariatric patient care.