Conscience at the End of Life
Author Information
Author(s): Baergen Ralph Neil, Skidmore James
Primary Institution: Department of Philosophy, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID, USA
Hypothesis
How do healthcare providers navigate the ethical dilemmas of conscientious refusal and commitment at the end of life?
Conclusion
Healthcare providers who refuse to provide medical services should be expected to explain their reasons, make prompt referrals, and bear some of the resulting costs or burdens.
Supporting Evidence
- Conscientious refusals have spread to various areas of medical practice, particularly near the end of life.
- Healthcare professionals are expected to prioritize patient care over personal moral views.
- Refusals based on bias or personal beliefs can disrupt patient care and access to necessary services.
Takeaway
Doctors sometimes have to choose between following their beliefs and providing care that patients want, especially at the end of life.
Methodology
This paper reviews the ethical issues involved in conscientious refusals and commitments in healthcare.
Potential Biases
There is a risk that some healthcare professionals may use conscientious refusals to deny treatment based on bias against patients.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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