Question

In 300 words clearly state what the ethical course of action would be based on the information from this case study. Support that stance by using at least 3 different ethical concepts and or principles for example Autonomy, Deontology and Consequentialism. Remember to use objectively (no personal opinions) and impartiality ( each person's needs and interests are given equal weight) when making and supporting your stance. Case study: Dr. Yee is a cardiologist. A 75-year-old patient in need of heart surgery has recently been referred to his practice. The patient is overweight and has known he was at risk for heart disease for years. Still, he never modified his diet or exercise despite his doctor’s recommendations. His poor health makes the surgery riskier and less likely to extend his life for long. Regardless, the patient would like Dr. Yee to perform the surgery. Dr. Yee needs to decide if he will operate or refuse the surgery to this patient. What should Dr. Yee do and why?

Answer 1

The paramount responsibility of physicians when caring for a patient is to the patient,placing their intrest ahead of all other intrestes,personal and professional.One of the fundamental principles of medical ethics is respect for the right of individuals to make decisions about what will happen to their own body and to act upon those decisions,this is known as the principle of respect for patient's autonomy.

The manifestation of this principle in the practice of medicine is informed consent,which comprises three essential elements: the preconditions for decision making(capacity to make decisions and volunteeriness.),the provision of information(disclosure of relevant facts and recommendations) and consent( including both decision and authorisation for others to act on patient's decision.Thus the decision making involves both physician and the patient, the physician provide expert knowledge and advice and the patient decide what to do based on his preferences and values.

Medical ethics also focused on two contradictory concepts of consequentialist approach and deontological ethics.In consequentialist approach outcome determines the morality of the intervention where as in deontological approach duties / obligations are of prime importance.

Hence based on the elements of medical ethics of the patient is at a state possible for him to give a written informed consent for a surgery then the doctor should not deny him the medical procedure.The doctor should explain him the increased chance of risk more than benefits of performing surgery and if then also the patient is asking for it,the doctor should do the procedure after attaing an informed consent from the patient.