Experts' Attitudes Towards Medical Futility in Japan
Author Information
Author(s): Alireza Bagheri, Atsushi Asai, Ryuichi Ida
Primary Institution: Graduate School of Law, Kyoto University; Department of Bioethics, Faculty of Medical and Pharmaceutical Science, Kumamoto University
Hypothesis
What are the attitudes of Japanese experts towards medical futility?
Conclusion
The survey shows that there is no support for physicians' unilateral decision-making on futile care in Japan.
Supporting Evidence
- 67.6% of respondents believe that a physician's refusal to provide treatment on the grounds of futility cannot be morally justified.
- 85.2% affirmed that physicians have an obligation to inform patients or families if treatment is physiologically futile.
- 68% of respondents believe that practical guidelines by health authorities would help in decision-making on futile care.
Takeaway
Doctors in Japan believe that patients and their families should have a say in treatment decisions, especially when it comes to treatments that may not help.
Methodology
A questionnaire survey was conducted among members of the Japan Association for Bioethics.
Potential Biases
The respondents were primarily involved in bioethical discussions, which may influence their views.
Limitations
The study's target group may not represent all Japanese healthcare professionals.
Participant Demographics
62% were healthcare professionals, 37% were non-healthcare professionals, 41% were female, and 57% were male.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.676
Statistical Significance
p = 0.676
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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