Medical ethics

1. Medical EthicsMedical Ethics

2. Deontological EthicsDeontological Ethics
“Deon” = duty (Greek)
• Decisions are based on what one believes is
right or good- out of one’s duty to do right.
• Conditioned by religious, cultural or
societal norms

3. Consequential EthicsConsequential Ethics
• Choice between options is based on the
perceived outcome -what will give the best
result
• Best for whom?
• Who decides?

4. Principles of Ethical DecisionPrinciples of Ethical Decision
Making in Medical PracticeMaking in Medical Practice
 Beneficence: to do only what is good
 Non-maleficence: to do nothing that is harmful
 Autonomy: the right of choice
 Justice: equality of access to all

5. ConsentConsent
Implied
Written
Informed
Exceptional circumstances

6. ConfidentialityConfidentiality
Privileged communication
• When?
• To whom?
• For what reasons?

7. EuthanasiaEuthanasia
Active
Passive
Assisted suicide
Ethical issues/ legal issues

8. Ethics in ReproductiveEthics in Reproductive
MedicineMedicine
Definition of start of life
Pro-life vs. Pro-choice
Rights of medical personnel
Legal responsibilities in marriage

9. Issues in ReproductiveIssues in Reproductive
MedicineMedicine
Contraception
Abortion/ Termination of Pregnancy
“Wrongful life”
Assisted Reproduction involving third
parties – surrogacy
donor insemination
 Confidentiality

10. Resource AllocationResource Allocation
• Justice
Equity
Access
• Autonomy
of the patient
of the doctor