Global Bioethics and End-of-Life Decisions in Thailand
Author Information
Author(s): Scott Stonington, Pinit Ratanakul
Primary Institution: University of California San Francisco
Hypothesis
What should the bioethics be for developing countries adopting allopathic medicine?
Conclusion
Thailand needs to develop its own bioethical systems using local concepts to address end-of-life decisions effectively.
Supporting Evidence
- Western bioethics does not adequately address the ethical dilemmas faced in Thai medical practice.
- Thai physicians often refuse to withdraw ventilators due to cultural and ethical beliefs.
- The concept of karma plays a significant role in medical decision-making in Thailand.
Takeaway
This study shows that Thailand needs its own way of thinking about medical ethics, especially for tough decisions at the end of life.
Methodology
The study is based on 30 ethnographic interviews and two months of participant-observation fieldwork.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in interpreting local ethical frameworks through a Western lens.
Limitations
The study may not encompass all cultural perspectives within Thailand.
Participant Demographics
Participants included Thai physicians and families involved in end-of-life decisions.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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