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Maccaro A, Stokes K, Statham L, He L, Williams A, Pecchia L, Piaggio D. Clearing the Fog: A Scoping Literature Review on the Ethical Issues Surrounding Artificial Intelligence-Based Medical Devices. J Pers Med 2024; 14:443. [PMID: 38793025 PMCID: PMC11121798 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14050443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The use of AI in healthcare has sparked much debate among philosophers, ethicists, regulators and policymakers who raised concerns about the implications of such technologies. The presented scoping review captures the progression of the ethical and legal debate and the proposed ethical frameworks available concerning the use of AI-based medical technologies, capturing key themes across a wide range of medical contexts. The ethical dimensions are synthesised in order to produce a coherent ethical framework for AI-based medical technologies, highlighting how transparency, accountability, confidentiality, autonomy, trust and fairness are the top six recurrent ethical issues. The literature also highlighted how it is essential to increase ethical awareness through interdisciplinary research, such that researchers, AI developers and regulators have the necessary education/competence or networks and tools to ensure proper consideration of ethical matters in the conception and design of new AI technologies and their norms. Interdisciplinarity throughout research, regulation and implementation will help ensure AI-based medical devices are ethical, clinically effective and safe. Achieving these goals will facilitate successful translation of AI into healthcare systems, which currently is lagging behind other sectors, to ensure timely achievement of health benefits to patients and the public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Maccaro
- Applied Biomedical Signal Processing Intelligent eHealth Lab, School of Engineering, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK; (A.M.); (K.S.); (L.S.); (L.H.); (A.W.); (L.P.)
| | - Katy Stokes
- Applied Biomedical Signal Processing Intelligent eHealth Lab, School of Engineering, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK; (A.M.); (K.S.); (L.S.); (L.H.); (A.W.); (L.P.)
| | - Laura Statham
- Applied Biomedical Signal Processing Intelligent eHealth Lab, School of Engineering, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK; (A.M.); (K.S.); (L.S.); (L.H.); (A.W.); (L.P.)
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Lucas He
- Applied Biomedical Signal Processing Intelligent eHealth Lab, School of Engineering, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK; (A.M.); (K.S.); (L.S.); (L.H.); (A.W.); (L.P.)
- Faculty of Engineering, Imperial College, London SW7 1AY, UK
| | - Arthur Williams
- Applied Biomedical Signal Processing Intelligent eHealth Lab, School of Engineering, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK; (A.M.); (K.S.); (L.S.); (L.H.); (A.W.); (L.P.)
| | - Leandro Pecchia
- Applied Biomedical Signal Processing Intelligent eHealth Lab, School of Engineering, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK; (A.M.); (K.S.); (L.S.); (L.H.); (A.W.); (L.P.)
- Intelligent Technologies for Health and Well-Being: Sustainable Design, Management and Evaluation, Faculty of Engineering, Università Campus Bio-Medico Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | - Davide Piaggio
- Applied Biomedical Signal Processing Intelligent eHealth Lab, School of Engineering, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK; (A.M.); (K.S.); (L.S.); (L.H.); (A.W.); (L.P.)
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González-Blázquez FJ, Ruiz-Hontangas A, López-Mora C. Bioethical knowledge in students and health professionals: a systematic review. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1252386. [PMID: 38660422 PMCID: PMC11041021 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1252386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Bioethics training is essential for healthcare professionals as it enables them to address ethical dilemmas in their clinical practice. However, there is still a lack of rigorous teaching programs, and assessing bioethical knowledge poses challenges. Methodology Systematic review using the PRISMA method. Results Analysis of 27 studies reveals a lack of ethical knowledge and skills among healthcare professionals and students. Specific training in bioethics is effective in developing bioethical competencies. Different approaches have been employed, including integrated training in academic curricula and intensive or ongoing programs. The results demonstrate improvements in knowledge, attitudes, and ethical values, although regularly updating these courses is recommended. Conclusion Specific training, institutional support, and considering regional and disciplinary differences are necessary to enhance ethics in the practice of healthcare professionals. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023437146, identifier CRD42023437146.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Older patients are often vulnerable and highly dependent on healthcare professionals' assessment in the event of acute illness. In the context of ambulance services, this poses challenges as the assessment is normally conducted with a focus on identifying life-threatening conditions. Such assessment is not fully satisfactory in a patient relationship that also aims to promote and protect patient autonomy. AIM To describe ambulance clinicians' understanding of older patients' self-determination when the patient's decision-making ability is impaired. RESEARCH DESIGN A qualitative design with an inductive approach, guided by descriptive phenomenology. PARTICIPANTS In total, 30 ambulance clinicians, comprised of 25 prehospital emergency nurses, 1 nurse and 4 emergency medical technicians participated in 15 dyadic interviews. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS The research was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki, and permission was granted by the Swedish Ethical Review Authority. FINDINGS The findings are presented in two themes: (1) Movement between explicit and implicit will; and (2) Contradictions about the patient's best interests. The clinicians' interpretations are based on an understanding of the patient's situation using substitute decision-making in emergency situations and conversations that reveal the patient's explicit wishes. Sometimes the clinicians collaborate to validate the patient's implicit will, while they at other times subordinate themselves to others' opinions. The clinicians find themselves in conflict between personal values and organisational values as they try to protect the patient's self-determination. CONCLUSION The results indicate that older patients with an impaired decision-making ability risk losing the right to self-determination in the context of ambulance services. The clinicians face challenges that significantly affect their ability to handle the older patient's unique needs based on a holistic perspective and their ability to be autonomous.
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Fawaz R, Fouet M, Brenot G, Bertani A, Lamblin A, Delmas JM. Ethical Issues Regarding Neurosurgical Management of Penetrating Brain Injury in the French Armed Forces. Mil Med 2024; 189:e919-e922. [PMID: 37856219 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usad396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Combat penetrating brain injury (PBI) differs significantly from PBI in civilian environments. Differences include technical factors such as the weapons involved, strained resource environments, and limited medical materials and human resources available. Ethical issues regarding the management of PBI in military settings may occur. This case study examines the case of a 20-year-old member of the French Armed Forces that suffered a penetrating brain injury in a combat situation. The four-quadrant method along with the four principles of medical ethics (respect for autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice) was used to analyze this case and to apply ethics to the practice of military medicine. Nowadays, we possess the medical and surgical resources as well as the aeromedical evacuation capability to save the life of a soldier with a penetrating craniocerebral wound. Nonetheless, the functional outcome of this type of wound places military doctors in an ethical dilemma. The line of conduct and clinical protocol established by the French Medical Health Service is to manage all PBIs when the patient's life can be saved and to provide all available financial and social support for the rehabilitation of patients and their family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rayan Fawaz
- Department of Neurosurgery, Percy Military Teaching Hospital, Clamart Cedex 92140, France
| | - Mathilde Fouet
- Department of Neurosurgery, Percy Military Teaching Hospital, Clamart Cedex 92140, France
| | - Godefroi Brenot
- Department of Urology, Bégin Military Teaching Hospital, Saint Mandé Cedex 94160, France
| | - Antoine Bertani
- Department of Orthopedics, Edouard Herriot Hospital, Lyon Cedex 69003, France
| | - Antoine Lamblin
- Department of Anesthesiology and Reanimation, Edouard Herriot Hospital, Lyon Cedex 69003, France
| | - Jean-Marc Delmas
- Department of Neurosurgery, Percy Military Teaching Hospital, Clamart Cedex 92140, France
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Furlan TJ. Principlism, Uncodifiability, and the Problem of Specification. Camb Q Healthc Ethics 2024:1-22. [PMID: 38221728 DOI: 10.1017/s0963180123000622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
In this paper I critically examine the implications of the uncodifiability thesis for principlism as a pluralistic and non-absolute generalist ethical theory. In this regard, I begin with a brief overview of W.D. Ross's ethical theory and his focus on general but defeasible prima facie principles before turning to 2) the revival of principlism in contemporary bioethics through the influential work of Tom Beauchamp and James Childress; 3) the widespread adoption of specification as a response to the indeterminacy of abstract general principles and the limitations of balancing and deductive approaches; 4) the challenges raised to fully specified principlism by the uncodifiability thesis and 5) finally offer a defense of the uncodifiability thesis against various critiques that have been raised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J Furlan
- Burnett Family Distinguished Professor of Ethics, Director, Center for Ethical Leadership, University of St Thomas, 3800 Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX77006, USA
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Fredheim OM, Materstvedt LJ, Skulberg I, Magelssen M. Ought the level of sedation to be reduced during deep palliative sedation? A clinical and ethical analysis. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2024; 13:e984-e989. [PMID: 34686524 PMCID: PMC10850687 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2021-003081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deep palliative sedation (DPS) is applied as a response to refractory suffering at the end of life when symptoms cannot be relieved in an awake state. DPS entails a dilemma of whether to provide uninterrupted sedation-in which case DPS would turn into deep and continuous palliative sedation (DCPS) -to minimise the risk that any further intolerable suffering will occur or whether to pause sedation to avoid unnecessary sedation. DPS is problematic in that it leaves the patient 'socially dead' by eradicating their autonomy and conscious experiences. AIM To perform a normative ethical analysis of whether guidelines should recommend attempting to elevate consciousness during DPS. DESIGN A structured analysis based on the four principles of healthcare ethics and consideration of stakeholders' interests. RESULTS When DPS is initiated it reflects that symptom relief is valued above the patient's ability to exercise autonomy and experience social interaction. However, if a decrease in symptom burden occurs, waking could be performed without patients experiencing suffering. Such pausing of deep sedation would satisfy the principles of autonomy and beneficence. Certain patients require substantial dose increases to maintain sedation. Waking such patients risks causing distressing symptoms. This does not happen if deep sedation is kept uninterrupted. Thus, the principle of non-maleficence points towards not pausing sedation. The authors' clinical ethics analysis demonstrates why other stakeholders' interests do not appear to override arguments in favour of providing uninterrupted sedation. CONCLUSION Stopping or pausing DPS should always be considered, but should not be routinely attempted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olav Magnus Fredheim
- Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Akershus University Hospital, Lorenskog, Norway
- National Competence Centre for Complex Symptom Disorders, Department of Pain and Complex Disorders, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Lars Johan Materstvedt
- Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies, Faculty of Humanities, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
- Glasgow End of Life Studies Group, School of Interdisciplinary Studies, University of Glasgow, Dumfries Campus, Dumfries, Scotland, UK
| | - Ingeborg Skulberg
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Akershus University Hospital, Lorenskog, Norway
| | - Morten Magelssen
- Centre for Medical Ethics, Institute of Health and Society, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- MF Norwegian School of Theology, Religion and Society, Oslo, Norway
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Ebbesen M, Korvink JG, Islam M, Lantada AD. The ethics of engineered living materials. Trends Biotechnol 2024; 42:5-9. [PMID: 37798144 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2023.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Engineered living materials (ELMs) combine living and non-living entities. Their associated ethical concerns must be addressed to promote safety, promote sustainability, and regulate societal impacts. This article identifies key ethical and safety issues by reflecting on fundamental ethical principles. It further discusses a future ethical roadmap for sustainable research in ELMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette Ebbesen
- Techno-Anthropology & Participation, Department of Planning, Aalborg University, Denmark.
| | - Jan G Korvink
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Institute of Microstructure Technology, Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany.
| | - Monsur Islam
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Institute of Microstructure Technology, Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany.
| | - Andrés Díaz Lantada
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, c/ José Gutiérrez Abascal 2, 28006 Madrid, Spain.
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Wang J, Xu Y, Zhang X, Pan H. Ethical predicaments and countermeasures in nursing informatics. Nurs Ethics 2023:9697330231215962. [PMID: 37976551 DOI: 10.1177/09697330231215962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
With the increasing use of technology in nursing, how nurses perform practice care has changed, inevitably leading to ethical concerns that differ from original ethical norms in nursing. Studies have focused on ethical issues in health informatics from clinicians' or patients' perspectives, while nurses' perspective is needed. This paper conducts a theoretical study on ethical predicaments that arise in nursing informatics from nurses' perspectives. Why and how these predicaments emerge are elaborated. Also, this paper offers countermeasures in realistic contexts from technique, education, and leadership aspects. Collaborations between governments, administrators, educators, technicians, and nurses are needed to step out of these predicaments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yihong Xu
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine
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Sørensen OB, Milling L, Laerkner E, Mikkelsen S, Bruun H. Professional prehospital clinicians' experiences of ethical challenges associated with the collaboration with organised voluntary first responders: a qualitative study. Scand J Trauma Resusc Emerg Med 2023; 31:79. [PMID: 37964364 PMCID: PMC10644536 DOI: 10.1186/s13049-023-01147-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Volunteer First Responders are used worldwide. In the Region of Southern Denmark, two types of programs have been established. One of these programs consists of voluntary responders without any requirements of education or training who are summoned to prehospital cardiac arrests. The other type of program is established primarily in the rural areas of the region and consists of volunteers with some mandatory education in first aid. These volunteers are summoned to all urgent cases along with the ambulances. Cooperation between professional healthcare workers and nonprofessionals summoned through official channels may be challenging. This study aimed to explore prehospital clinicians' experiences of ethical challenges in cooperation with volunteer first responders. METHODS We conducted 16 semi-structured interviews at four different ambulance stations in the Region of Southern Denmark. Five emergency physicians and 11 emergency medical technicians/paramedics were interviewed. The interviews were transcribed, and the data were analysed using systematic text condensation. RESULTS The study's 16 interviews resulted in the identification of some specific categories that challenged the cooperation between the two parties. We identified three main categories: 1. Beneficence, the act of doing good, 2. The risk of harming patients' autonomy 3. Non-maleficence, which is the obligation not to inflict harm on others. CONCLUSION This study provides an in-depth insight into the ethical challenges between prehospital clinicians and voluntary first responders from the perspective of the prehospital clinicians. Both programs are considered to have value but only when treating patients with cardiac arrest. Our study highlights potential areas of improvement in the two Danish voluntary programs in their current form.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Beierholm Sørensen
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000, Odense, Denmark
- The Prehospital Research Unit, Region of Southern Denmark, Odense University Hospital, 5000, Odense, Denmark
| | - Louise Milling
- The Prehospital Research Unit, Region of Southern Denmark, Odense University Hospital, 5000, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Cardiology, Nord Zealand Hospital, 3400, Hillerød, Denmark
| | - Eva Laerkner
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Odense University Hospital, 5000, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, Research Unit in Anesthesiology, University of Southern Denmark, 5000, Odense, Denmark
| | - Søren Mikkelsen
- The Prehospital Research Unit, Region of Southern Denmark, Odense University Hospital, 5000, Odense, Denmark.
- Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000, Odense, Denmark.
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Odense University Hospital, 5000, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Henriette Bruun
- The Prehospital Research Unit, Region of Southern Denmark, Odense University Hospital, 5000, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000, Odense, Denmark
- Psychiatric Department Middelfart, Mental Health Services in the Region of Southern Denmark, 5500, Middelfart, Denmark
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Fischer E, Green D, Lygnegård F. Occupation as means and ends in paediatric occupational therapy - A systematic review. Scand J Occup Ther 2023; 30:1181-1198. [PMID: 36947668 DOI: 10.1080/11038128.2023.2188253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a lack of evidence-based knowledge in paediatric occupational therapy about the effectiveness of interventions using daily activities as a treatment modality in improving children's participation. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of occupation-based and occupation-focused interventions in improving participation in everyday occupations for young children with a disability. MATERIAL AND METHODS A systematic review based on Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and critical appraisal tools was conducted. Six databases were searched for quantitative intervention studies aimed at improving participation in everyday occupations of young children with a disability through the use of everyday occupation. RESULTS The search yielded 3732 records, of which 13 studies met inclusion criteria. Ten studies met methodological quality criteria and were included in the synthesis, five randomised controlled trials and five quasi-experimental studies, involving a total of 424 children with a mean age of 6.5 years. The studies were classified into cognitive (n = 5), context-focussed (n = 2) and playgroup interventions (n = 3). Study quality ranged from low to moderate, only one study was rated high quality. CONCLUSIONS AND SIGNIFICANCE Occupation-based and occupation-focused interventions may have a positive effect on participation in everyday occupations for young children with a disability, but study design, risk of bias and insufficient reporting limit confidence in the body of evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Fischer
- School of Health and Welfare, Department of Rehabilitation, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - D Green
- School of Health and Welfare, Department of Rehabilitation, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
- CHILD Research Centre, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
- College of Health Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University, London, UK
| | - F Lygnegård
- School of Health and Welfare, Department of Rehabilitation, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
- CHILD Research Centre, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
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Teti SL. A troubling foundational inconsistency: autonomy and collective agency in critical care decision-making. THEORETICAL MEDICINE AND BIOETHICS 2023; 44:279-300. [PMID: 36973596 DOI: 10.1007/s11017-023-09608-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
'Shared' decision-making is heralded as the gold standard of how medical decisions should be reached, yet how does one 'share' a decision when any attempt to do so will undermine autonomous decision-making? And what exactly is being shared? While some authors have described parallels in literature, philosophical examination of shared agency remains largely uninvestigated as an explanation in bioethics. In the following, shared decision-making will be explained as occurring when a group, generally comprised of a patient and or their family, and the medical team become a genuine intentional subject which acts as a collective agent. Collective agency can better explain how some medical decisions are reached, contrary to the traditional understanding and operationalization of 'autonomy' in bioethics. Paradoxically, this often occurs in the setting of high-stakes moral decision-making, where conventional wisdom would suggest individuals would most want to exercise autonomous action according to their personally held values and beliefs. This explication of shared decision-making suggests a social ontology ought to inform or displace significant aspects of autonomy as construed in bioethics. It will be argued that joint commitments are a fundamental part of human life, informing and explaining much human behavior, and thus suggesting that autonomy - conceived of as discrete, individuated moral reasoning of a singular moral agent - is not an unalloyed 'good.'
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Affiliation(s)
- Stowe Locke Teti
- Center for Clinical and Organizational Ethics, Inova Fairfax Medical Campus, 3300 Gallows Road, Falls Church, Fairfax, VA, 22042, USA.
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Vermeulen SF, Hordijk M, Visser RJ, Bunnik EM. Do Physicians Have a Duty to Discuss Expanded Access to Investigational Drugs with their Patients? A Normative Analysis. THE JOURNAL OF LAW, MEDICINE & ETHICS : A JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF LAW, MEDICINE & ETHICS 2023; 51:172-180. [PMID: 37226748 PMCID: PMC10209970 DOI: 10.1017/jme.2023.53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Drawing on ethical and legal frameworks in the Netherlands, the United States and France, we examine whether physicians are expected to inform patients about potentially relevant opportunities for expanded access to investigational drugs. While we found no definitive legal obligation, we argue that physicians have a moral obligation to discuss opportunities for expanded access with patients who have run out of treatment options to prevent inequality, to promote autonomy, and to achieve beneficence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan F Vermeulen
- DEPARTMENT OF MEDICAL ETHICS, PHILOSOPHY AND HISTORY OF MEDICINE, ERASMUS MC, UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTRE ROTTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS
- GGZ BREBURG, TILBURG, THE NETHERLANDS
| | - Marjolijn Hordijk
- DEPARTMENT OF MEDICAL ETHICS, PHILOSOPHY AND HISTORY OF MEDICINE, ERASMUS MC, UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTRE ROTTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS
| | - Ruben J Visser
- DEPARTMENT OF MEDICAL ETHICS, PHILOSOPHY AND HISTORY OF MEDICINE, ERASMUS MC, UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTRE ROTTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS
| | - Eline M Bunnik
- DEPARTMENT OF MEDICAL ETHICS, PHILOSOPHY AND HISTORY OF MEDICINE, ERASMUS MC, UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTRE ROTTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS
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13
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Padmapriya ST, Parthasarathy S. Ethical Data Collection for Medical Image Analysis: a Structured Approach. Asian Bioeth Rev 2023:1-14. [PMID: 37361687 PMCID: PMC10088772 DOI: 10.1007/s41649-023-00250-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to advancements in technology such as data science and artificial intelligence, healthcare research has gained momentum and is generating new findings and predictions on abnormalities leading to the diagnosis of diseases or disorders in human beings. On one hand, the extensive application of data science to healthcare research is progressing faster, while on the other hand, the ethical concerns and adjoining risks and legal hurdles those data scientists may face in the future slow down the progression of healthcare research. Simply put, the application of data science to ethically guided healthcare research appears to be a dream come true. Hence, in this paper, we discuss the current practices, challenges, and limitations of the data collection process during medical image analysis (MIA) conducted as part of healthcare research and propose an ethical data collection framework to guide data scientists to address the possible ethical concerns before commencing data analytics over a medical dataset.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. T. Padmapriya
- Department of Applied Mathematics and Computational Science, Thiagarajar College of Engineering, Madurai, India
| | - Sudhaman Parthasarathy
- Department of Applied Mathematics and Computational Science, Thiagarajar College of Engineering, Madurai, India
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14
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Akhurst JE, Leach MM. Confidentiality, informed consent, and multiple relationships in four emerging regions. ETHICS & BEHAVIOR 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/10508422.2022.2152339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
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15
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The ethics of dismissing a patient with melanoma who repeatedly no-shows. J Am Acad Dermatol 2023; 88:513-514. [PMID: 35318106 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2022.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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16
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Compulsory vaccination against COVID-19: a legal and ethical perspective on public good versus personal reticence. Ir J Med Sci 2023; 192:221-226. [PMID: 35211839 PMCID: PMC8872645 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-022-02942-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Coercive measures to protect public health are controversial, eliciting questions regarding state-patient relationships and conflicts between individual autonomy and public good. This is challenging in a time when respect for patient autonomy has become elevated yet society faces an increasing number of public health challenges, the most recent being the SARS-CoV-2 virus (COVID-19). In that context, there is emphasis on increasing vaccination rates internationally in order to achieve "herd immunity", raising the possibility of compulsory vaccination of populations in the future. Here, we explore current rights of individuals to decline vaccination, utilising prior learning from other viral pathogens internationally (specifically, measles, mumps and rubella), and related public health outcomes. Further, we consider freedom of choice versus mandatory treatment necessitated to avoid contagion during disease outbreaks (such as COVID-19). In doing so, we utilise rhetorical reasoning in the form of casuistry focusing on the core challenges regarding public good versus personal antipathy towards vaccination.
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Sinaise MK, Tran A, Johnson HM, Vedder LS, Hoppe KK, Lauver D. Concepts from behavioral theories can guide clinicians in coaching for behavior change. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2023; 106:188-193. [PMID: 36335082 PMCID: PMC10153998 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2022.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Many patients do not engage in health behaviors that can control common, chronic illnesses. Clinicians have opportunities to promote health behaviors yet may lack skills for coaching effectively about health behaviors. Our aims are to: present definitions of coaching, propose concepts for coaching about behavior change from two theories, share theory-guided research on behavior change relevant to ambulatory care settings, and delineate how concepts from these theories can guide coaching. METHODS In our discussion, we explain how two behavioral theories are complementary and applicable to coaching, present empirical support for these theories, and describe applications of these concepts for practice. CONCLUSIONS AND PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Self-determination theory can guide clinicians in how to interact with patients to meet patients' psychological needs, to promote health behaviors, and subsequent health status. Self-regulation theory can guide coaches in what concepts to address for behavior change. These complementary theories have been supported in rigorous research with adult populations in ambulatory care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Knutson Sinaise
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, 1010 Mound Street, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Abigail Tran
- Project Coordinator, System Cancer Service Line, Advocate-Aurora Health, 2900 W. Oklahoma Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53215, USA
| | - Heather M Johnson
- Clinical Affiliate Associate Professor, Christine E. Lynn Women's Health & Wellness Institute, Boca Raton Regional Hospital; Baptist Health South Florida, Florida Atlantic University, 690 Meadows Road, Boca Raton, FL 33486
| | - Lisa Sullivan Vedder
- Clinical Adjunct Associate Professor, Department of Family Medicine Advocate-Aurora University of Wisconsin Group, Aurora Sinai Medical Center, 945 N 12th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA
| | - Kara K Hoppe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, 1010 Mound Street, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Diane Lauver
- School of Nursing & School of Medicine and Public Health University of Wisconsin, Madison, USA.
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Hofstad T, Husum TL, Rugkåsa J, Hofmann BM. Geographical variation in compulsory hospitalisation - ethical challenges. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1507. [PMID: 36496384 PMCID: PMC9737766 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08798-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Compulsory hospitalisation in mental health care restricts patients' liberty and is experienced as harmful by many. Such hospitalisations continue to be used due to their assumed benefit, despite limited scientific evidence. Observed geographical variation in compulsory hospitalisation raises concern that rates are higher and lower than necessary in some areas. METHODS/DISCUSSION We present a specific normative ethical analysis of how geographical variation in compulsory hospitalisation challenges four core principles of health care ethics. We then consider the theoretical possibility of a "right", or appropriate, level of compulsory hospitalisation, as a general norm for assessing the moral divergence, i.e., too little, or too much. Finally, we discuss implications of our analysis and how they can inform the future direction of mental health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tore Hofstad
- grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Centre for Medical Ethics, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tonje Lossius Husum
- grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Centre for Medical Ethics, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway ,grid.412414.60000 0000 9151 4445Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jorun Rugkåsa
- grid.411279.80000 0000 9637 455XHealth Services Research Unit, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway ,grid.463530.70000 0004 7417 509XCentre for Care Research, University of South-Eastern Norway, Porsgrunn, Norway
| | - Bjørn Morten Hofmann
- grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Centre for Medical Ethics, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway ,grid.5947.f0000 0001 1516 2393Department of Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Gjøvik, Norway
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Mäurer MA, Mäurer I, Kamp MA. Can neuro-oncology teaching contribute to educate medical doctors better? A reflection on the value of neuro-oncology for student teaching. Chin Neurosurg J 2022; 8:23. [PMID: 36050785 PMCID: PMC9438309 DOI: 10.1186/s41016-022-00293-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuro-oncology, with its various conservative, surgical, and interventional disciplines, is ideally suited to teach basic knowledge, skills, and attitudes important to medical practice in general. However, training is less about teaching specific treatment protocols and more about fostering skills for interdisciplinary collaboration, development of treatment recommendations, communication skills, and an ethical stance. To adequately teach this content, new and innovative formats are needed to test and learn high levels of student interaction, communication, and collaboration. New teaching concepts such as inverted teaching formats as well as the use of modern media technology can be helpful to improve networking between disciplines and to improve the quality of medical education.
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20
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Ebbesen M, Sørensen KD, Pedersen BG, Andersen S. Ethical Principles in the Analysis of Prostate Cancer Diagnostics. Cancer Invest 2022; 40:799-810. [PMID: 35787090 DOI: 10.1080/07357907.2022.2098314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Recent developments in prostate cancer diagnostics call for appropriate tools to frame the ethical assessment of diagnostic practice. The first aim is to identify ethically important features and ethical principles of key importance for prostate cancer diagnostics. Next, we need to argue which ethical theory justifies these principles and can therefore be used for ethical assessment in the field. The standard medical procedure for prostate cancer diagnostics offered by the Danish health care system is used as an example.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette Ebbesen
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital & Centre for Science Studies, Department of Mathematics, Aarhus University, Denmark. ORCID: 0000-0002-1453-1449
| | - Karina Dalsgaard Sørensen
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital & Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark. ORCID: 0000-0002-4902-5490
| | - Bodil Ginnerup Pedersen
- Department of Radiology, Aarhus University Hospital & Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark. ORCID: 0000-0003-2792-7343
| | - Svend Andersen
- School of Culture and Society, Aarhus University, Denmark. ORCID: 0000-0002-2295-0571
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21
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DeMarco JP, Ford PJ, Rose SL. Implicit Fuzzy Specifications, Inferior to Explicit Balancing. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOETHICS : AJOB 2022; 22:21-23. [PMID: 35737490 DOI: 10.1080/15265161.2022.2075970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
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22
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Lee SM, Martino E, Bismark M, Bentley R. Evidence to guide ethical decision-making in the management of older people living in squalor: a narrative review. Intern Med J 2022; 52:1304-1312. [PMID: 35762169 PMCID: PMC9544969 DOI: 10.1111/imj.15862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Older people living in squalor present healthcare providers with a set of complex issues because squalor occurs alongside a variety of medical and psychiatric conditions, and older people living in squalor frequently decline intervention. To synthesise empirical evidence on squalor to inform ethical decision‐making in the management of squalor using the bioethical framework of principlism. A systematic literature search was conducted using Medline, Embase, PsycINFO and CINAHL databases for empirical research on squalor in older people. Given the limited evidence base to date, an interpretive approach to synthesis was used. Sixty‐seven articles that met the inclusion criteria were included in the review. Our synthesis of the research evidence indicates that: (i) older people living in squalor have a high prevalence of frontal executive dysfunction, medical comorbidities and premature deaths; (ii) interventions are complex and require interagency involvement, with further evaluations needed to determine the effectiveness and potential harm of interventions; and (iii) older people living in squalor utilise more medical and social resources, and may negatively impact others around them. These results suggest that autonomous decision‐making capacity should be determined rather than assumed. The harm associated with squalid living for the older person, and for others around them, means a non‐interventional approach is likely to contravene the principles of non‐maleficence, beneficence and justice. Adequate assessment of decision‐making capacity is of particular importance. To be ethical, any intervention undertaken must balance benefits, harms, resource utilisation and impact on others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sook Meng Lee
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Western Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Erika Martino
- Research Fellow and PhD candidate in the NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Healthy Housing, The Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marie Bismark
- Professor of the Law and Public Health Unit of the Centre for Health Policy, The Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rebecca Bentley
- Professor and Director of the NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Healthy Housing, The Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Adigun M, Ojebuyi BR, Akinyemi J, Wahab K, Akpalu A, Sarfo FS, Owolabi LF, Musbahu R, Bello A, Obiako R, Ogunronbi M, Singh A, Nichols M, Jenkins C, Jegede A, Kalaria R, Owolabi M, Ovbiagele B, Arulogun O, Akinyemi R. Legal Implications of Stroke Biobanking and Genomics Research in Sub-Saharan Africa. JOURNAL OF LAW AND MEDICINE 2022; 29:579-598. [PMID: 35819393 PMCID: PMC11328967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Stroke is a major cause of death in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and genetic factors appear to play a part. This has led to stroke biobanking and genomics research in SSA. Existing stroke studies have focused on causes, incidence rates, fatalities and effects. However, scant attention has been paid to the legal issues in stroke biobanking and genomics research in the sub-region. Therefore, this article examines the legal implications of stroke biobanking and genomics research in SSA. The article adopts a textual analysis of primary and secondary sources in law. It reports that there are laws from the perspectives of human right, the common law, and intellectual property. However, there are gaps to be filled. The article therefore argues for legislative intervention. It concludes that pending the time the statute will be enacted, genomics researchers in Africa should adopt the ethical guidelines prepared by Human Heredity and Health in Africa (H3 Africa).
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Affiliation(s)
- Muyiwa Adigun
- Department of Public Law, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | | | - Fred S Sarfo
- Neurology Unit, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana
| | | | | | - Abiodun Bello
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Ilorin
| | - Reginald Obiako
- Neurology Unit, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria
| | | | - Arti Singh
- School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Michelle Nichols
- College of Nursing, Medical University of South Carolina, United States
| | - Carolyn Jenkins
- College of Nursing, Medical University of South Carolina, United States
| | | | - Rajesh Kalaria
- Neurovascular Research Group, Newcastle University, United Kingdom
| | | | - Bruce Ovbiagele
- Weill Institute of Neuroscience, University of California, San Franscisco, California, United States
| | | | - Rufus Akinyemi
- Neuroscience and Ageing Research Unit, University of Ibadan
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Pereira AZ, da Cunha SFDC, Grunspun H, Bueno MAS. The Difficult Decision Not to Prescribe Artificial Nutrition by Health Professionals and Family: Bioethical Aspects. Front Nutr 2022; 9:781540. [PMID: 35308279 PMCID: PMC8928268 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.781540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
IntroductionBioethics and nutrition are essential issues in end of life, advanced dementia, life-sustaining therapies, permanent vegetative status, and unacceptably minimal quality of life. Even though artificially administered nutrition (AAN), for this type of health condition, does not improve quality of life and extension of life, and there is evidence of complications (pulmonary and gastrointestinal), it has been used frequently. It had been easier considering cardiopulmonary resuscitation as an ineffective treatment than AAN for a healthy team and/or family. For this reason, many times, this issue has been forgotten.ObjectivesThis study aimed to discuss bioethical principles and AAN in the involved patients.DiscussionThe AAN has been an essential source of ethical concern and controversy. There is a conceptual doubt about AAN be or not be a medical treatment. It would be a form of nourishment, which constitutes primary care. These principles should be used to guide the decision-making of healthcare professionals in collaboration with patients and their surrogates.ConclusionsThis difficult decision about whether or not to prescribe AAN in patients with a poor prognosis and without benefits should be based on discussions with the bioethics committee, encouraging the use of advanced directives, education, and support for the patient, family, and health team, in addition to the establishment of effective protocols on the subject. All of this would benefit the most important person in this process, the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Z. Pereira
- Oncology and Hematology Department, Israelita Albert Einstein Hospital, São Paulo, Brazil
- Bioethical Committee, Israelita Albert Einstein Hospital, São Paulo, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Andrea Z. Pereira
| | | | - Henrique Grunspun
- Bioethical Committee, Israelita Albert Einstein Hospital, São Paulo, Brazil
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25
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Jayaram A, Sparks J, Callies D. Justifying the risks of COVID-19 challenge trials: The analogy with organ donation. BIOETHICS 2022; 36:100-106. [PMID: 34180072 PMCID: PMC8444865 DOI: 10.1111/bioe.12889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In the beginning of the COVID pandemic, researchers and bioethicists called for human challenge trials to hasten the development of a vaccine for COVID. However, the fact that we lacked a specific, highly effective treatment for COVID led many to argue that a COVID challenge trial would be unethical and we ought to pursue traditional phase III testing instead. These ethical objections to challenge trials may have slowed the progress of a COVID vaccine, so it is important to evaluate their merit. One common way of doing so is to make an analogy to other social practices that are relevantly similar and which we currently sanction. We submit that non-directed live organ donation (NDLOD) is a promising analogy. After arguing that the risks to volunteers for each activity appear similar, we explore potential disanalogies that would undermine the comparison. We note that there are differences in both the kind and certainty of benefit secured by NDLOD compared to challenge trials. We conclude these differences are insufficient to make NDLOD permissible and challenge trials impermissible. Ultimately, if we think the risks associated with NDLOD are ethically permissible, then we should think the same of the risks associated with COVID challenge trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athmeya Jayaram
- Institute for Practical EthicsUniversity of California San DiegoLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Jacob Sparks
- Philosophy DepartmentCalifornia Polytechnic State UniversitySan Luis ObispoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Daniel Callies
- Health Ethics CenterUniversity of California, Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
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26
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Heyman-Kantor R, Cockerill RG. Ethical Issues in Vagus Nerve Stimulation and Deep Brain Stimulation. FOCUS (AMERICAN PSYCHIATRIC PUBLISHING) 2022; 20:71-75. [PMID: 35746932 PMCID: PMC9063602 DOI: 10.1176/appi.focus.20210031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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27
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Maseme M. Commodification of biomaterials and data when funding is contingent to transfer in biobank research. MEDICINE, HEALTH CARE, AND PHILOSOPHY 2021; 24:667-675. [PMID: 34286415 DOI: 10.1007/s11019-021-10042-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
It is common practice for biobanks and biobank researchers to seek funding from agencies that are independent of the biobank that often stipulate conditions requiring researchers to grant access and share biomaterials and data as part of the agreement, in particular, in international collaborative health research. As yet, to the author's knowledge, there has been no study conducted to examine whether these conditions could result in the commercialization of biomaterials and data and whether such practice is considered ethical. This paper therefore seeks to answer the question of whether such sharing of biomaterials and data for biobank research in exchange for funding from sponsors and funders in collaborative health research is ethically justified. The central idea of this paper is based on an argument against commodification of the body and its parts, which includes biomaterials and data and holds that it is ethically wrong to commodify humans and their body parts. The arguments against commodification of biomaterials and data explored are the Kantian approach argument as it relates to interference of commodification with human dignity which is linked to a diminished sense of personhood, an argument against commodification that is based on a dilution of altruism and lastly the communitarian approach anti-commodification argument which emphasizes a social responsibility to the common good. Arguments in support of commodification based on liberal individualism and consequentialism are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mantombi Maseme
- National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), Biobank, 25 Hospital Street, Constitution Hill, Johannesburg, South Africa.
- Steve Biko Centre for Bioethics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
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28
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Mann DG, Sutton CD. Ethics in the Labor and Delivery Unit. Anesthesiol Clin 2021; 39:839-849. [PMID: 34776112 DOI: 10.1016/j.anclin.2021.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Obstetric anesthesiologists can use the tenets of principlism to identify ethically supportable decisions. This approach begins with recognizing and upholding the fiduciary obligations that every physician has to their patient. For the pregnant patient, these obligations are both autonomy- and beneficence-based. Additional beneficence-based obligations arise in cases where the fetus is also considered a patient. Ethical dilemmas result from conflict between any of these obligations. A shared decision-making model that incorporates the foundational principles of ethics can be used to resolve these conflicts, leaving clinicians and patients confident that a sound decision-making process has taken place and an ethically supportable decision has been reached.
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Affiliation(s)
- David G Mann
- Department of Pediatric Anesthesiology, Perioperative, and Pain Medicine, Clinical Ethics, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, 6621 Fannin Street, Suite A3300, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Caitlin D Sutton
- Department of Pediatric Anesthesiology, Perioperative, and Pain Medicine, Division of Maternal-Fetal Anesthesia, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, 6621 Fannin Street, Suite A3300, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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Hochwald IH, Yakov G, Radomyslsky Z, Danon Y, Nissanholtz-Gannot R. Ethical challenges in end-stage dementia: Perspectives of professionals and family care-givers. Nurs Ethics 2021; 28:1228-1243. [PMID: 34112013 PMCID: PMC8637375 DOI: 10.1177/0969733021999748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Israel, caring for people with end-stage dementia confined to home is mainly done by home care units, and in some cases by home hospice units, an alternative palliative-care service. Because life expectancy is relatively unknown, and the patient's decision-making ability is poor, caring for this unique population raises ethical dilemmas regarding when to define the disease as having reached a terminal stage, as well as choosing between palliative and life-prolonging-oriented care. OBJECTIVES Exploring and describing differences and similarities of professional staff members' (PSMs') and family caregivers' perceptions of caring for people with end-stage dementia in two different settings. DESIGN Qualitative research, using semi-structured interviews analyzed through a thematic content-analysis approach. PARTICIPANTS Sixty-four interviews were conducted (24 PSMs and 40 family caregivers) in two care-settings-home hospice unit and home care unit. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS The study was approved by the Ethics Committee (BBL00118-17). FINDINGS We found dilemmas regarding palliative care to be the main theme, including definition of the disease as terminal, choosing "comfort" over "life-prolonging," clarifying patients' wishes and deciding whether or not to use artificial feeding. DISCUSSION Both PSMs and family caregivers deal with ethical dilemmas and have reached different conclusions, both legitimate. Comprehending dementia as a terminal disease influenced participants' perceptions of the relevancy of palliative care for people with end-stage dementia. Discrepancies between PSMs and family caregivers in caring for people with end-stage dementia were found in both home hospice unit and home care unit environments, raising potential conflicts regarding decisions for end-of-life care. CONCLUSIONS Communication between PSMs and family caregivers is crucial for the discussion about the discrepancies regarding the unique dilemmas of caring for people with end-stage dementia and bridging the gap between them. Lack of communication and resources can hamper the provision of an acceptable solution for quality and equality of care in the best interest of people with end-stage dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gila Yakov
- Max Stern Yezreel Valley College, Israel
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30
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The association between healthcare resource allocation and health status: an empirical insight with visual analytics. J Public Health (Oxf) 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10389-021-01651-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
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31
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Lambregts M, Rump B, Ropers F, Sijbom M, Petrignani M, Visser L, de Vries M, de Boer M. Antimicrobial guidelines in clinical practice: incorporating the ethical perspective. JAC Antimicrob Resist 2021; 3:dlab074. [PMID: 34235435 PMCID: PMC8254525 DOI: 10.1093/jacamr/dlab074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Guidelines on antimicrobial therapy are subject to periodic revision to anticipate changes in the epidemiology of antimicrobial resistance and new scientific knowledge. Changing a policy to a broader spectrum has important consequences on both the individual patient level (e.g. effectiveness, toxicity) and population level (e.g. emerging resistance, costs). By combining both clinical data evaluation and an ethical analysis, we aim to propose a comprehensive framework to guide antibiotic policy dilemmas. Methods A preliminary framework for decision-making on antimicrobial policy was constructed based on existing literature and panel discussions. Antibiotic policy themes were translated into specific elements that were fitted into this framework. The adapted framework was evaluated in two moral deliberation groups. The moral deliberation sessions were analysed using ATLAS.ti statistical software to categorize arguments and evaluate completeness of the final framework. Results The final framework outlines the process of data evaluation, ethical deliberation and decision-making. The first phase is a factual data exploration. In the second phase, perspectives are weighed and the policy of moral preference is formulated. Judgments are made on three levels: the individual patient, the patient population and society. In the final phase, feasibility, implementation and re-evaluation are addressed. Conclusions The proposed framework facilitates decision-making on antibiotic policy by structuring existing data, identifying knowledge gaps, explicating ethical considerations and balancing interests of the individual and current and future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merel Lambregts
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Babette Rump
- National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Centre for Infectious Diseases Control (RIVM-LCI), Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3721MA, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Fabienne Ropers
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Meibergdreef 9, 1105AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martijn Sijbom
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Mariska Petrignani
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Haaglanden Municipal Health Service, Westeinde 128, 2512HE Den Haag, The Netherlands
| | - Leo Visser
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Martine de Vries
- Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Medical Ethics and Law, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Mark de Boer
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Navigating Ethical Practices in the Era of High Cost Hematology. Curr Hematol Malig Rep 2020; 15:401-407. [PMID: 33025550 DOI: 10.1007/s11899-020-00599-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW In this review article, we will highlight ethical issues faced by hematologists due to a growing constellation of expensive diagnostics and therapeutics in hematology. We outline the important issues surrounding this topic including stakeholders, cost considerations, and various ethical challenges surrounding access to care, communication about costs, and individual vs. societal responsibilities. We review available tools to navigate these ethical themes and offer potential solutions. RECENT FINDINGS We identified several gaps in the literature on the topic of ethical issues in hematology treatment and supplement by non-hematological cancer and general medical literature. We propose proactive solutions to address these problems to include cost transparency, utilization of evidence-based decision making tools, application of the four quadrant approach to ethical care, and advanced systems-based practice curriculum for physician trainees.
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Kubheka BZ. Bioethics and the use of social media for medical crowdfunding. BMC Med Ethics 2020; 21:96. [PMID: 33019946 PMCID: PMC7537104 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-020-00521-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social media has globalised compassion enabling requests for donations to spread beyond geographical boundaries. The use of social media for medical crowdfunding links people with unmet healthcare needs to charitable donors. There is no doubt that fundraising campaigns using such platforms facilitates access to financial resources to the benefit of patients and their caregivers. MAIN TEXT This paper reports on a critical review of the published literature and information from other online resources discussing medical crowdfunding and the related ethical questions. The review highlighted the benefits of crowdfunding as well as the under-exploration of the risk of having patients' desires and human rights undermined during online fundraising campaigns. Majority of these campaigns get initiated on behalf of the patients, especially the very sick and dependant. The ethical questions raised relate to the voluntariness of informed consent and the possibility of patients being used as a means to an end. Vulnerability of patients may expose them to coercion, undue influence, manipulation, and violation of their human rights. The success of these campaigns is influenced by the digital skills, pre-existing social networks and, the emotional potency. Healthcare is a public good, and online market forces should not determine access to essential health services. The benefits of crowdfunding cannot be subverted, but it can perpetuate unintended injustices, especially those arising from socio-economic factors. CONCLUSIONS Policymakers ought to monitor the utilisation of crowdfunding sites to identify policy failures and unmet essential health care needs responsible for driving individuals to use these platforms. The upholding of human rights and the fundamental respect of the individual's wishes is a moral imperative. The need for an ethics framework to guide different stakeholders during medical crowdfunding needs further examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda Zanele Kubheka
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
- Health IQ Consulting, Johannesburg, South Africa.
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Korman AM, Grant-Kels JM. The ethics of navigating an inappropriately canceled inpatient dermatology consultation. J Am Acad Dermatol 2020; 84:585. [PMID: 33011315 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2020.09.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Abraham M Korman
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.
| | - Jane M Grant-Kels
- Department of Dermatology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut
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Kraaijeveld SR. Vaccinating for Whom? Distinguishing between Self-Protective, Paternalistic, Altruistic and Indirect Vaccination. Public Health Ethics 2020; 13:190-200. [PMID: 33294030 PMCID: PMC7700798 DOI: 10.1093/phe/phaa005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Preventive vaccination can protect not just vaccinated individuals, but also others, which is often a central point in discussions about vaccination. To date, there has been no systematic study of self- and other-directed motives behind vaccination. This article has two major goals: first, to examine and distinguish between self- and other-directed motives behind vaccination, especially with regard to vaccinating for the sake of third parties, and second, to explore some ways in which this approach can help to clarify and guide vaccination debates and policy. I propose conceiving of vaccination in terms of three basic elements: the vaccination decision-maker, the vaccine recipient and the primary beneficiary. I develop a taxonomy based on the relations between these elements to distinguish four kinds of vaccination: self-protective, paternalistic, altruistic and indirect. I finally discuss the case of human papillomavirus vaccine regulation for men and women to show how each kind of vaccination is associated with and raises specific ethical questions.
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Bunnik EM, Timmers M, Bolt IL. Ethical Issues in Research and Development of Epigenome-wide Technologies. Epigenet Insights 2020; 13:2516865720913253. [PMID: 32313869 PMCID: PMC7154555 DOI: 10.1177/2516865720913253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
To date, few scholarly discussions on ethical implications of epigenetics and epigenomics technologies have focused on the current phase of research and development, in which researchers are confronted with real and practical ethical dilemmas. In this article, a responsible research and innovation approach, using interviews and an expert meeting, is applied to a case of epigenomic test development for cervical cancer screening. This article provides an overview of ethical issues presently facing epigenomics researchers and test developers, and discusses 3 sets of issues in depth: (1) informed consent; (2) communication with donors and/or research participants, and (3) privacy and publication of data and research results. Although these issues are familiar to research ethics, some aspects are new and most require reinterpretation in the context of epigenomics technologies. With this article, we aim to start a discussion of the practical ethical issues rising in research and development of epigenomic technologies and to offer guidance for researchers working in the field of epigenetic and epigenomic technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eline M Bunnik
- Department of Medical Ethics, Philosophy and History of Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marjolein Timmers
- Department of Medical Ethics, Philosophy and History of Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ineke Lle Bolt
- Department of Medical Ethics, Philosophy and History of Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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A standardized patient education class as a vehicle to improving shared decision-making and increasing access to breast reconstruction. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg 2020; 73:1534-1539. [PMID: 32241738 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2020.02.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Revised: 12/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Shared decision-making is a key component of patient-centered care and has been shown to improve patient satisfaction and quality of life. Herein, we study the impact of a standardized patient education class for prospective breast reconstruction patients on clinic efficiency, access to care, and perception on shared decision-making. METHODS The number of new patient consultations per clinic, as well as average duration of the first individual clinic encounter, was compared before and after the introduction of a standardized education class given by the senior author to all new breast reconstruction patients. To evaluate patients' perception of shared decision-making, the 9-item Shared Decision-Making Questionnaire (SDM-Q9) and the Satisfaction with Information scale of the BREAST-Q Reconstruction Module were electronically distributed among the patients and compared between the two groups. RESULTS Introduction of the patient education class was associated with a significant reduction in the duration of new patient encounters compared to historic controls (31.8 min vs. 53.5 min, p < 0.01) along with permitting a 43% increase in new patient visits. No differences in self-perceived patient education and autonomy were seen between class participants and historic controls in the SDM-Q9 scores (p = 0.58) and BREAST-Q scores (p = 0.14). CONCLUSION The introducing a standardized patient education class translated into a significant reduction in the duration of individual new patient encounters, thereby increasing patient access to care, while maintaining high-quality standards of self-perceived patient education and shared decision-making.
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Qu C, Sas C, Daudén Roquet C, Doherty G. Functionality of Top-Rated Mobile Apps for Depression: Systematic Search and Evaluation. JMIR Ment Health 2020; 7:e15321. [PMID: 32012079 PMCID: PMC7007593 DOI: 10.2196/15321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the last decade, there has been a proliferation of mobile apps claiming to support the needs of people living with depression. However, it is unclear what functionality is actually provided by apps for depression, or for whom they are intended. OBJECTIVE This paper aimed to explore the key features of top-rated apps for depression, including descriptive characteristics, functionality, and ethical concerns, to better inform the design of apps for depression. METHODS We reviewed top-rated iPhone OS (iOS) and Android mobile apps for depression retrieved from app marketplaces in spring 2019. We applied a systematic analysis to review the selected apps, for which data were gathered from the 2 marketplaces and through direct use of the apps. We report an in-depth analysis of app functionality, namely, screening, tracking, and provision of interventions. Of the initially identified 482 apps, 29 apps met the criteria for inclusion in this review. Apps were included if they remained accessible at the moment of evaluation, were offered in mental health-relevant categories, received a review score greater than 4.0 out of 5.0 by more than 100 reviewers, and had depression as a primary target. RESULTS The analysis revealed that a majority of apps specify the evidence base for their intervention (18/29, 62%), whereas a smaller proportion describes receiving clinical input into their design (12/29, 41%). All the selected apps are rated as suitable for children and adolescents on the marketplace, but 83% (24/29) do not provide a privacy policy consistent with their rating. The findings also show that most apps provide multiple functions. The most commonly implemented functions include provision of interventions (24/29, 83%) either as a digitalized therapeutic intervention or as support for mood expression; tracking (19/29, 66%) of moods, thoughts, or behaviors for supporting the intervention; and screening (9/29, 31%) to inform the decision to use the app and its intervention. Some apps include overtly negative content. CONCLUSIONS Currently available top-ranked apps for depression on the major marketplaces provide diverse functionality to benefit users across a range of age groups; however, guidelines and frameworks are still needed to ensure users' privacy and safety while using them. Suggestions include clearly defining the age of the target population and explicit disclosure of the sharing of users' sensitive data with third parties. In addition, we found an opportunity for apps to better leverage digital affordances for mitigating harm, for personalizing interventions, and for tracking multimodal content. The study further demonstrated the need to consider potential risks while using depression apps, including the use of nonvalidated screening tools, tracking negative moods or thinking patterns, and exposing users to negative emotional expression content.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengcheng Qu
- School of Computing and Communications, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Corina Sas
- School of Computing and Communications, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Claudia Daudén Roquet
- School of Computing and Communications, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Gavin Doherty
- School of Computer Science and Statistics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Morris T, Brostoff JM, Stonier PD, Boyd A. Evolution of Ethical Principles in the Practice of Pharmaceutical Medicine From a UK Perspective. Front Pharmacol 2020; 10:1525. [PMID: 32009950 PMCID: PMC6974548 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pharmaceutical medicine has evolved to be a distinct medical scientific discipline over time. Pharmaceutical medicine has distinctive features related to complex innovative medicines development activities in an often commercially focused competitive environment. This sometimes uneasy mix of professionalism and commercialisation demands of its medical and scientific researchers alike, a focus on strict adherence to ethical standards, guidelines, practices and behaviors in the interest of delivering new, effective, high-quality lifesaving and life-enhancing medicines quickly and reliably to patients in need. To support the speciality, codes of ethical standards and practices have been developed, with several being recently updated. These various codes are outlined in this paper along with relevant historical perspectives and interrelationship with concepts of professionalism. Reflecting the longer history of pharmaceutical medicine as a speciality in the UK and experience of the authors, there is a focus on the UK for the historical perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Morris
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Medicine, Royal College of Physicians, London, United Kingdom
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Hammami MM, Hammami MB, Aboushaar R. Modeling Lay People's Ethical Attitudes to Organ Donation: A Q-Methodology Study. Patient Prefer Adherence 2020; 14:173-189. [PMID: 32099336 PMCID: PMC6996217 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s230286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Organ donation is commonly evaluated by biomedical ethicists based largely on principlism with autonomy at the top of the "moral mountain." Lay people may differ in the way they invoke and balance the various ethical interests. We explored lay people's ethical attitudes to organ donation. METHODS Respondents (n=196) ranked 42 opinion-statements on organ donation according to a 9-category symmetrical distribution. Statements' scores were analyzed by averaging-analysis and Q-methodology. RESULTS Respondents' mean (SD) age was 34.5 (10.6) years, 53% were women, 69% Muslims (30% Christians), 29% Saudis (26% Filipinos), and 38% healthcare-related. The most-agreeable statements were "Acceptable if benefit to recipient large," "Explicit donor consent and family approval for live donation," "Acceptable if directed to family member," and "Explicit donor consent and family approval for postmortem donation." The most-disagreeable statements were "Donor consent and family approval not required for postmortem donation," "Acceptable with purely materialistic motivation," and "Only donor no-known objection for postmortem donation." Women, Christians, and healthcare respondents gave higher rank to "Explicit donor consent and family approval for live donation," "Only donor family consent required for postmortem donation," and "Acceptable if organ distribution equitable," respectively, and Muslims gave more weight to donor/family harm (p ≤0.001). Q-methodology identified various ethical resolution models that were associated with religious affiliation and included relatively "motives-concerned," "family-benefit-concerned," "familism-oriented," and "religious or non-religious altruism-concerned" models. Of 23 neutral statements on averaging-analysis, 48% and 65% received extreme ranks in ≥1 women and men Q-methodology models, respectively. CONCLUSION 1) On average, recipient benefit, requirement of both explicit donor consent and family approval, donor-recipient relationship, and motives were predominant considerations; 2) ranking of some statements was associated with respondents' demographics; 3) Q-methodology identified various ethical resolution models that were partially masked by averaging-analysis; and 4) strong virtue and familism approaches in our respondents provide some empirical evidence against principlism adequacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad M Hammami
- Clinical Studies and Empirical Ethics Department, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Alfaisal University College of Medicine, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: Muhammad M Hammami Clinical Studies and Empirical Ethics Department, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, P O Box # 3354 (MBC 03), Riyadh11211, Saudi ArabiaTel +966-11-442-4527Fax +966-11-442-7894 Email
| | - Muhammad B Hammami
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, John Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Hammami MM, Hammami S, Aboushaar R, Aljomah AS. Lay People's Ethical Attitudes To Placebo Treatment: A Q-Methodology Study. Patient Prefer Adherence 2019; 13:1599-1617. [PMID: 31631979 PMCID: PMC6776293 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s216565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Placebo-treatment acceptability is debated among ethicists, mostly due to conflict between respect-to-autonomy and beneficence principles. It is not clear how lay people balance these and other ethical principles. METHODS One hundred and eighty-seven respondents rank-ordered 42 opinion statements covering various ethical aspects of placebo-treatment, according to a 9-category symmetrical distribution. We analyzed statements' scores using averaging-analysis and by-person factor analysis (Q-methodology). RESULTS Respondents' mean (SD) age was 34.6 (10.6) years, 54% were women, 40% healthcare-related, 68% Muslims (31% Christians), and 39% received general education in Saudi Arabia (24% in the Philippines). On averaging-analysis, the most-agreeable statements were "Acceptable if benefit to patient large" and "Acceptable with physician intent to benefit patient". The most-disagreeable statements were "Acceptable with physician self-benefit intent" and "Acceptable with large harm to other patients". Muslims gave a higher rank to "Giving no description is acceptable", "Acceptable with small benefit to patient", and "Acceptable with physician intent to benefit patient" and a lower rank to "Acceptable to describe as inactive drug", "Acceptable with physician intent to please patient caring relative", and "Acceptable with moderate harm to other patients" (p<0.01). Q-methodology detected several ethical attitude models that were mostly multi-principled and consequentialism-dominated. The majority of Christian and Philippines-educated women loaded on a "relatively family and deception-concerned" model, whereas the majority of Muslim and Saudi Arabia-educated women loaded on a "relatively common-good-concerned" model. The majority of Christian and healthcare men loaded on a "relatively deception-concerned" model, whereas the majority of Muslim and non-healthcare men loaded on a "relatively motives-concerned" model. Of nine intent-related statements, ≥2 received extreme rank on averaging-analysis and in 100% of women and men models. CONCLUSION 1) On averaging-analysis, patient's beneficence (consequentialism) followed by physician's intent (virtue ethics) were more important than deception (respect-to-autonomy). 2) Q-methodology identified several ethical attitude models that were mostly multi-principled and associated with respondents' demographics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad M Hammami
- Clinical Studies and Empirical Ethics Department, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Alfaisal University College of Medicine, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: Muhammad M Hammami Clinical Studies and Empirical Ethics Department, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, P O Box # 3354 (MBC 03), Riyadh11211, Saudi ArabiaTel +966-1-442-4527Fax +966-1-442-7894 Email
| | | | | | - Ahmed S Aljomah
- Clinical Studies and Empirical Ethics Department, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Harvey DJR, Gardiner D. 'MORAL balance' decision-making in critical care. BJA Educ 2018; 19:68-73. [PMID: 33456873 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjae.2018.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- D J R Harvey
- Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - D Gardiner
- Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
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Westin A. 'Despite Circumstance': The Principles of Medical Ethics and the Role of Hope. New Bioeth 2018; 24:258-267. [PMID: 30015576 DOI: 10.1080/20502877.2018.1487703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
In this paper, I will examine how the role of hope can inform our interpretation of the classical principles of medical ethics. Defining hope as a future-oriented expectation for the good, I will look at how it can shape our understanding of justice, beneficence, respect for autonomy and non-maleficence. I will suggest that ethically engaging with these principles in medical practice requires placing value on the patient-practitioner relation as a mode of hope. Engaging the writings of Emmanuel Lévinas and Søren Kierkegaard, I will show how hope reveals itself through responsible and expectant relationship, even in the midst of suffering.
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Sethi N. Research and Global Health Emergencies: On the Essential Role of Best Practice. Public Health Ethics 2018; 11:237-250. [PMID: 30429871 PMCID: PMC6225813 DOI: 10.1093/phe/phy014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
This article addresses an important, overlooked regulatory challenge during global health emergencies (GHEs). It provides novel insights into how, and why, best practice can support decision makers in interpreting and implementing key guidance on conducting research during GHEs. The ability to conduct research before, during and after such events is crucial. The recent West-African Ebola outbreaks and the Zika virus have highlighted considerable room for improvement in meeting the imperative to research and rapidly develop effective therapies. A means of effectively capturing these experiences and folding them into future decision-making is lacking; the need for effective practical translational measures remains. The challenge for the research community lies in extracting meaningful action-guiding content from pre-existing guidelines-which draw upon practical examples of guidelines 'in action'-that assist in determining how to act in a particular (future) situation. Insights are provided into the role of best practice as a means to do so; such examples can provide invaluable support to decision makers in interpreting high-level guidance; overarching guidelines retain their necessary level of generality and flexibility, whilst corresponding best practice examples-which incorporate important lessons learned-illustrate how such guidelines can be interpreted at a practical level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayha Sethi
- Liminal Spaces, Mason Institute, University of Edinburgh
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Kater-Kuipers A, Bunnik EM, de Beaufort ID, Galjaard RJH. Limits to the scope of non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT): an analysis of the international ethical framework for prenatal screening and an interview study with Dutch professionals. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2018; 18:409. [PMID: 30340550 PMCID: PMC6194707 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-018-2050-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The introduction of non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for foetal aneuploidies is currently changing the field of prenatal screening in many countries. As it is non-invasive, safe and accurate, this technique allows for a broad implementation of first-trimester prenatal screening, which raises ethical issues, related, for instance, to informed choice and adverse societal consequences. This article offers an account of a leading international ethical framework for prenatal screening, examines how this framework is used by professionals working in the field of NIPT, and presents ethical guidance for the expansion of the scope of prenatal screening in practice. Methods A comparative analysis of authoritative documents is combined with 15 semi-structured interviews with professionals in the field of prenatal screening in the Netherlands. Data were recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. Results The current ethical framework consists of four pillars: the aim of screening, the proportionality of the test, justice, and societal aspects. Respondents recognised and supported this framework in practice, but expressed some concerns. Professionals felt that pregnant women do not always make informed choices, while this is seen as central to reproductive autonomy (the aim of screening), and that pre-test counselling practices stand in need of improvement. Respondents believed that the benefits of NIPT, and of an expansion of its scope, outweigh the harms (proportionality), which are thought to be acceptable. They felt that the out-of-pocket financial contribution currently required by pregnant women constitutes a barrier to access to NIPT, which disproportionally affects those of a lower socioeconomic status (justice). Finally, professionals recognised but did not share concerns about a rising pressure to test or discrimination of disabled persons (societal aspects). Conclusions Four types of limits to the scope of NIPT are proposed: NIPT should generate only test outcomes that are relevant to reproductive decision-making, informed choice should be (made) possible through adequate pre-test counselling, the rights of future children should be respected, and equal access should be guaranteed. Although the focus of the interview study is on the Dutch healthcare setting, insights and conclusions can be applied internationally and to other healthcare systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kater-Kuipers
- Department of Medical Ethics and Philosophy of Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Room 24.17, Wytemaweg 80, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E M Bunnik
- Department of Medical Ethics and Philosophy of Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Room 24.17, Wytemaweg 80, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - I D de Beaufort
- Department of Medical Ethics and Philosophy of Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Room 24.17, Wytemaweg 80, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - R J H Galjaard
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Wytemaweg 80, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Geneviève LD, Wangmo T, Dietrich D, Woolley-Meza O, Flahault A, Elger BS. Research Ethics in the European Influenzanet Consortium: Scoping Review. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2018; 4:e67. [PMID: 30305258 PMCID: PMC6231872 DOI: 10.2196/publichealth.9616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2017] [Revised: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Influenzanet was launched in several European countries to monitor influenza-like illness during flu seasons with the help of volunteering participants and Web-based technologies. As in the case of developing fields, ethical approaches are not well developed in the collection, processing, and analysis of participants’ information. Existing controversies and varying national ethical regulations can, thus, hamper efficient cross-border research collaboration to the detriment of quality disease surveillance. Objective This scoping review characterizes current practices on how ethical, legal, and social issues (ELSIs) pertinent to research ethics are handled by different Influenzanet country groups to analyze similarities and identify the need for further harmonization of ethical approaches. Methods A literature search was carried out on PubMed, Web of Science, Global Digital Library on Ethics, and Bioethics Literature Database to identify ELSIs for Influenzanet country platforms. Only English-language papers were included with publication dates from 2003 to 2017. Publications were screened for the application of bioethics principles in the implementation of country platforms. Additional publications gathered from the Influenzanet Consortium website, reference screening, and conference proceeding were screened for ELSIs. Results We gathered 96 papers from our search methodology. In total, 28 papers that mentioned ELSIs were identified and included in this study. The Research Ethics Committee (REC) approvals were sought for recruiting participants and collecting their data in 8 of 11 country platforms and informed e-consent was sought from participants in 9 of 11 country platforms. Furthermore, personal data protection was ensured throughout the Consortium using data anonymization before processing and analysis and using aggregated data. Conclusions Epidemics forecasting activities, such as Influenzanet, are beneficial; however, its benefits could be further increased through the harmonization of data gathering and ethical requirements. This objective is achievable by the Consortium. More transparency should be promoted concerning REC-approved research for Influenzanet-like systems. The validity of informed e-consent could also be increased through the provision of a user friendly and standard information sheet across the Consortium where participants agree to its terms, conditions, and privacy policies before being able to fill in the questionnaire. This will help to build trust in the general public while preventing any decline in participation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tenzin Wangmo
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Damien Dietrich
- Department of Radiology and Medical Informatics, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.,Institute of Global Health, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Antoine Flahault
- Institute of Global Health, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Bernice Simone Elger
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,University Center of Legal Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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Dépistage des cancers chez le sujet âgé. Rev Med Interne 2018; 39:650-653. [DOI: 10.1016/j.revmed.2017.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Lamba N, Fick T, Nandoe Tewarie R, Broekman ML. Management of hydrocephalus in patients with leptomeningeal metastases: an ethical approach to decision-making. J Neurooncol 2018; 140:5-13. [PMID: 30022283 PMCID: PMC6182391 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-018-2949-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2018] [Accepted: 07/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Leptomeningeal metastases (LM) are a rare, but often debilitating complication of advanced cancer that can severely impact a patient's quality-of-life. LM can result in hydrocephalus (HC) and lead to a range of neurologic sequelae, including weakness, headaches, and altered mental status. Given that patients with LM generally have quite poor prognoses, the decision of how to manage this HC remains unclear and is not only a medical, but also an ethical one. METHODS We first provide a brief overview of management options for hydrocephalus secondary to LM. We then apply general ethical principles to decision making in LM-associated hydrocephalus that can help guide physicians and patients. RESULTS Management options for LM-associated hydrocephalus include shunt placement, repeated lumbar punctures, intraventricular reservoir placement, endoscopic third ventriculostomy, or pain management alone without intervention. While these options may offer symptomatic relief in the short-term, each is also associated with risks to the patient. Moreover, data on survival and quality-of-life following intervention is sparse. We propose that the pros and cons of each option should be evaluated not only from a clinical standpoint, but also within a larger framework that incorporates ethical principles and individual patient values. CONCLUSIONS The decision of how to manage LM-associated hydrocephalus is complex and requires close collaboration amongst the physician, patient, and/or patient's family/friends/community leaders. Ultimately, the decision should be rooted in the patients' values and should aim to optimize a patient's quality-of-life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayan Lamba
- Department of Neurosurgery, Computational Neurosciences Outcomes Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tim Fick
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Marike L Broekman
- Department of Neurosurgery, Computational Neurosciences Outcomes Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, The Netherlands.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands.
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
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Hernández-Marrero P, Fradique E, Pereira SM. Palliative care nursing involvement in end-of-life decision-making: Qualitative secondary analysis. Nurs Ethics 2018; 26:1680-1695. [PMID: 29807491 DOI: 10.1177/0969733018774610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nurses are the largest professional group in healthcare and those who make more decisions. In 2014, the Committee on Bioethics of the Council of Europe launched the "Guide on the decision-making process regarding medical treatment in end-of-life situations" (hereinafter, Guide), aiming at improving decision-making processes and empowering professionals in making end-of-life decisions. The Guide does not mention nurses explicitly. OBJECTIVES To analyze the ethical principles most valued by nurses working in palliative care when making end-of-life decisions and investigate if they are consistent with the framework and recommendations of the Guide; to identify what disputed/controversial issues are more frequent in these nurses' current end-of-life care practices. DESIGN Qualitative secondary analysis. PARTICIPANTS/CONTEXT Three qualitative datasets including 32 interviews from previous studies with nurses working in palliative care in Portugal. ETHICAL CONSIDERATION Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethics Research Lab of the Instituto de Bioética (Ethics Research Lab of the Institute of Bioethics) (Ref.04.2015). Ethical procedures are thoroughly described. FINDINGS All participant nurses referred to autonomy as an ethical principle paramount in end-of-life decision-making. They were commonly involved in end-of-life decision-making. Palliative sedation and communication were the most mentioned disputed/controversial issues. DISCUSSION Autonomy was highly valued in end-of-life care and decision-making. Nurses expressed major concerns in assessing patients' preferences, wishes, and promoting advance care planning. Nurses working in palliative care in Portugal were highly involved in end-of-life decision-making. These processes embraced a collective, inclusive approach. Palliative sedation was the most mentioned disputed issue, which is aligned with previous findings. Communication also emerged as a sensitive ethical issue; it is surprising, however, that only three nurses referred to it. CONCLUSION While the Guide does not explicitly mention nurses in its content, this study shows that nurses working in palliative care in Portugal are involved in these processes. Further research is needed on nurses' involvement and practices in end-of-life decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emília Fradique
- Hospital de Santa Maria, Portugal; Instituto S. João de Deus, Portugal
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Tosello B, Dany L. Psycho-social approach of perinatal palliative care. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2018; 32:3693-3696. [PMID: 29656674 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2018.1465915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Barthélémy Tosello
- a Aix-Marseille University, EFS/CNRS, UMR 7268 ADÉS, Espace Éthique Méditerranéen, Hospital La Timone , Marseille , France.,b Department of Neonatology , Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Hospital Nord , Marseille , France
| | - Lionel Dany
- c LPS EA 849, Aix Marseille Université , Aix-en-Provence , France.,d Department of Oncology , Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Hospital La Timone , Marseille , France
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