Abstract: Based on the research paradigm of grounded theory, this paper analyzed 80 diaries recording fighting against COVID-19 pandemic in Hubei. From the perspective of personal experience and perception of healthcare workers, this paper summarizes the core connotation of medical professionalism mainly including the scientific attitude for perfection, treating patients as a lofty responsibility and mission, compassion and gratitude to patients, and team spirit. According to the study, the theory of medical professionalism is found to be closely related to medical practice and healthcare workers' cognition and feelings, and the mutual empathy and gratitude between doctors and patients are of special significance to the cultivation of professionalism and the construction of harmonious doctor-patient relationship.

Key words: COVID-19, Grounded theory, Healthcare workers, Medical professionalism