Phase I Objectives
Introduction to Medical Ethics
To provide a foundation for subsequent discussions by introducing the
appropriate glossary, technique and substantive resources for clinical ethics
discourse. To introduce a standard format and method for discussion and
provide an opportunity for practice.
Genetic Testing, Genetic Screening, Gene Therapy
To explore the use of new diagnostic and intervention technologies,
i.e., decisions about screening, the disclosure of test results to patients or
others, and the relative risks and benefits of genetic therapy.
The Human Context of the Practice of Medicine: Self-awareness
To explore the students' own values and their function and significance
for clinical decision-making—what they believe and what difference that
makes.
The Pediatric Patient: Personhood, Parents and Principles
To explore the physician's responsibility to the child as patient and the
role/rights of the parents, and ethical and legal principles which inform
decisions when they are in conflict.
The Physician's Obligation to Society: Resource Allocation
To explore the physician's responsibility and informing principles
regarding the efficient and just use of limited clinical resources. Help the
students to understand the various interests involved, the areas of
controversy and conflict and what is expected of the student in preparation
for his/her role as a physician.
The Patient as Person: Responses to Illness, Living, Dying and Bereavement
To explore the personal and sociological effects of illness in the life of
a patient, productive and nonproductive means of coping with those effects,
and the role of the physician in this process. To explore the impact of dying
and death upon the students/physicians, patients and their families, and the
difficult decisions concerning the treatment of the dying patient.
Informed Consent and Confidentiality
To explore the physician's ethical and legal responsibilities for informed,
voluntary consent and confidentiality of patient information; and
circumstances in which disclosure can be made to others who are likely to be
affected (i.e., breaching confidentiality).
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