Medical Ethics
Articles tagged with Medical Ethics
AI-embodied surgical robots can revolutionize surgery—if regulatory questions addressed
Experts warn that AI-enhanced surgical robotics could enable true personalized surgery and enhance surgical team performance. However, regulatory reforms are needed to address risks from adaptive systems and ensure patient benefits.
Under embargo: Families and friends speak out on electroconvulsive therapy’s silenced risks
A new study reveals that electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can lead to significant negative impacts on standard of living, personal relationships, and even brain damage. Relatives and friends of ECT patients report long-term effects including memory loss, emotional blunting, and loss of independence.
Choosing embryos based on genetic predictions raises new ethical and legal concerns
Countries are taking different approaches to regulating polygenic embryo testing, which raises new ethical and legal concerns. The technology has expanded from screening for monogenic diseases to assessing complex traits like intelligence and disease risk, but its clinical value is uncertain due to environmental influences.
Queensland GPs face barriers in supporting VAD: QUT study
A QUT study found wide variation in GP involvement in voluntary assisted dying (VAD) in Queensland, highlighting the need for improved remuneration, streamlined processes, and broader education. GPs reported confusion about who was eligible and how to discuss VAD with patients.
New MOH–NUS Fellowship launched to strengthen everyday ethics in Singapore’s healthcare sector
The MOH–NUS Postgraduate Fellowship in Biomedical Ethics aims to equip healthcare professionals with knowledge and understanding of biomedical ethics, ethical analysis and reasoning. The first awardee, Ms Kwek Shi Qi, will conduct a research project to map barriers and drivers for nurses mediating ethical conflicts in frontline work.
Medicare patients get different stroke care depending on plan, analysis reveals
A study by University of Virginia Health System researchers found that Medicare Advantage patients had better access to preventive care and rehabilitation after a stroke, leading to faster recovery times. In contrast, traditional Medicare patients were less likely to receive these services due to prior authorization requirements.
Dementia research must include voices of those with lived experience
A new Canadian study found that people living with dementia are often excluded from research due to assumptions of incapacity and institutional processes. The study recommends standardized guidance for meaningful inclusion through rights-based approaches.
When specialization creates exclusion: the dangers of a compartmentalized medical system
A recent study highlights the dangers of a compartmentalized medical system and proposes three essential reforms to promote inclusive care. Patients with multiple conditions face difficulties in accessing care due to fragmented services, while interdisciplinary care ultimately leads to positive outcomes.
UBC study finds research in exercise physiology still fails women
A UBC study found that exercise physiology research predominantly focuses on male bodies and voices, while women are underrepresented as participants and researchers. The study highlights the need for greater equity in exercise physiology research to improve understanding of sex-based differences in physiology and treatment.
De-stigmatizing self-reported data in health care research
Long COVID shows self-reported data strengths over objective data, calls to de-stigmatize self-reporting in healthcare research. PLOS article highlights need for reevaluation of what counts as 'objective' data.
To make AI more fair, tame complexity
Researchers found that complexity, including ground truth, real-world complexity, and stakeholder involvement, are key factors in reducing AI biases. By accounting for these complexities, developers can create more fair AI models.
New video dataset to advance AI for health care
Researchers have launched a new multimodal medical dataset, Observer, capturing anonymized, real-time interactions between patients and clinicians. The dataset links video, audio, transcripts, and electronic health records to study subtleties like body language and environmental factors affecting care.
New UBCO research challenges traditional teen suicide prevention models
A UBCO study found that resilience is shaped by supportive communities, not individual traits. Community-based strategies and place-based interventions are crucial for effective suicide prevention.
UC Riverside professor named 2025 Hastings Center Fellow
Brandon Brown, a UC Riverside professor of social medicine and population health, has been elected as the first recipient of the 2025 Hastings Center Fellowship. He is recognized for his outstanding contributions to bioethics, particularly in HIV prevention and care, health equity, and social justice.
Ethics should lead, not play catch-up, Hiroshima University expert emphasizes as Japan panel OKs making human embryos from stem cells
A Japanese government panel has backed a report allowing research on human embryos created from stem cell-derived sperm and eggs. Professor Tsutomu Sawai of Hiroshima University emphasizes the need for an anticipatory, rather than reactive, approach to ethics in this rapidly advancing field.
New study could help your doctor make smarter treatment decisions
Researchers identified a 'sweet spot' in clinical decision-making, where presenting two or more appropriate treatment options increases the odds of physicians selecting a high-quality alternative. The study challenges the widely cited status-quo bias theory and suggests that more options can lead to better care decisions.
Six strategies to reinvigorate the doctor-patient bedside encounter
A new report from Northwestern University offers six practical strategies to improve the doctor-patient bedside encounter in an era dominated by AI. By employing these strategies, clinicians can strengthen patient-physician relationships, combat inequities, and reduce burnout, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.
American College of Cardiology, OpenEvidence to advance AI-enabled, evidence-based cardiovascular care
The American College of Cardiology and OpenEvidence are collaborating to integrate AI technology into clinical workflows, enhancing patient care and outcomes. The partnership aims to translate scientific discovery into clinical implementation, providing clinicians with timely and accurate medical evidence.
Japanese public show major reservations to cell donation for human brain organoid research
A recent study found that over 90% of Japanese residents were unaware of human brain organoids before being asked to donate cells. The public response was hesitant, with nearly three-quarters expressing serious hesitation or outright refusal under broad consent. To maintain trust, researchers advocate for project-specific consent models.
Scientists on ‘urgent’ quest to explain consciousness as AI gathers pace
Researchers warn that advances in AI and neurotechnology are outpacing our understanding of consciousness, with potential serious ethical consequences. A better understanding of consciousness could have major implications for AI, prenatal policy, animal welfare, medicine, mental health, law, and emerging neurotechnologies.
Frontiers Forum Deep Dive series: Scientists on ‘urgent’ quest to explain consciousness as AI gathers pace
Researchers Prof Axel Cleeremans, Prof Anil Seth, and Prof Liad Mudrik warn that advances in AI and neurotechnology are outpacing our understanding of consciousness. They emphasize the need for theory-driven research and innovative methods to advance consciousness science.
A potential game-changer: Mizzou researcher creating a new way to treat genetic disorders
A new RNA-based therapy targeting Marfan syndrome shows promise in treating the genetic disorder, which can lead to aortic aneurysms and be fatal. The therapy, developed by Mizzou researcher Dunpeng Cai, aims to correct mutated RNA for those with Marfan syndrome.
Medical opposition to capital punishment is needed as executions surge
Executions rose to a record high of at least 1518 globally in 2024, with most taking place in Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq. Medical opposition is needed to stop the practice, which is antithetical to healthcare professionals' commitment to promote health and wellbeing.
Scientists read mice’s ‘thoughts’ from their faces
Researchers at Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown used machine learning techniques to show that mice's facial movements reflect their hidden thoughts. This discovery could offer unprecedented insight into brain function and potential new research tools.
Too heavy for medical care: Over 40% of specialty clinics turn away patients weighing 465 pounds
A new study found that over 40% of specialty clinics in the US turn away patients weighing 465 pounds or more due to lack of accessibility features. The study highlights a need for staff training on inclusive care and accommodations for patients with severe obesity.
Taking the guesswork out of concussion assessments
A portable device using machine learning can detect signs of concussions in real-time, providing a more objective way to assess injuries. The Mizzou Point-of-Care Assessment System combines a force plate, depth camera and interface board to track movement, balance and reaction times.
University of Bergen research project awarded NOK 129 million funding by Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation
The University of Bergen's 'Fair Choices on the Path to Universal Health Coverage' project aims to strengthen low- and middle-income countries in handling cuts in development aid. The project will improve priority setting through evidence-informed, context-specific approaches, collaborating with academic institutions and governing bodi...
Novel philosophical framework rethinks the ethics of disability
A new philosophical framework offers a nuanced way to think about the relationship between disability and well-being. The Conditional BDV challenges dominant views, proposing that a disability is harmful if it interferes with an individual's ability to pursue their aspirations.
UC to launch center focused on ethical AI
The University of Cincinnati has established the Center for Explainable, Ethical and Trustworthy AI (CEET) with a $498,430 federal grant. The center will explore AI explainability, ethics, and trustworthiness through research and public engagement initiatives.
Are patients with advanced cancer receiving treatment aligned with their goals?
A recent study published in CANCER reveals that many patients with advanced cancer report receiving treatment that focuses on longevity rather than comfort. Despite this mismatch, the treatment did not appear to extend life for those who did not want it. The research highlights the importance of open conversations between doctors and p...
How a gift card could help speed up Alzheimer’s clinical research
A modest gift card significantly increased enrollment of low-income individuals in a patient registry designed to accelerate Alzheimer’s disease clinical trials. Targeted outreach may be more cost-effective than offering larger prizes.
Unethical medical research under National Socialism: Leopoldina and Max Planck Society publish database for science and remembrance
The Leopoldina and Max Planck Society have published a database of over 16,000 victims of coerced medical research under National Socialism, providing a platform for remembrance and research. The database connects individuals to primary and secondary sources, enabling further studies and analyses.
Is your health care provider really listening to you?
A new article by Dr. Leonard Berry of Texas A&M University argues that values-driven listening can improve care and heal the healthcare system. The authors identify six types of listening, including proximate, curious, earning trust, aided by design, empowering, and fostering resilience, which contribute to better care.
Collaborating on new technologies for better healthcare
The summit features renowned scholars, healthcare professionals, and industry innovators discussing biotechnology, digital health, and AI in healthcare. Key panels focus on the impact of biotechnology, integrating digital technology into healthcare solutions, and exploring ethical challenges.
New guidance puts communities at the heart of research
A new study provides a framework for researchers to make their work more equitable and representative of local communities. The guidance highlights the importance of community-based research, where community members are actively involved in identifying research priorities and designing studies.
The ISSCR releases targeted update to the guidelines for stem cell research and clinical translation
The ISSCR has released an updated set of guidelines for stem cell research and clinical translation, incorporating advances in human stem cell-based embryo models. The new guidelines aim to provide clear guidance on the development and application of these innovative models.
Journal of Medical Ethics is world’s leading bioethics journal, according to new rankings
The Journal of Medical Ethics has been ranked the world's leading bioethics journal according to 2025 Google Scholar Metrics. The journal is co-led by Associate Professor Brian D Earp and a new editorial team seeking to promote ethical reflection and conduct in scientific research and medical practice.
JMIR Medical Informatics invites submissions on ambient AI scribes and AI-driven documentation technologies
The journal is seeking original research, viewpoints, and tutorials exploring the use of AI-driven documentation in clinical settings. Submissions should address practical applications, challenges, and future directions of AI-facilitated clinical documentation.
Study highlights major hurdles for multinational clinical trials in Europe
A new study highlights major hurdles for multinational clinical trials in Europe, including differences in timelines and processing times between countries. Researchers found that the UK made significant gains in efficiency during the pandemic, while non-UK countries lagged behind.
New gene therapy delivery device could let hospitals create personalized nanomedicines on-demand
A new gene therapy delivery device called NANOSPRESSO could revolutionize how hospitals treat rare diseases by allowing them to create personalized nanomedicines in-house. This democratized approach to precision medicine could boost access to low-cost bespoke gene and RNA therapies, especially in low-resource settings.
A new look at the Stateville prison malaria research
Researchers at University of Utah reveal the untold story of Black prisoners who participated in malaria experiments, leading to breakthroughs in pharmacogenetics and prevention of adverse drug reactions. The study highlights the importance of acknowledging the contributions of marginalized groups in medical research.
Why regulating stem cell–based embryo model research is important (yet controversial)
The study reviews international trends in regulating stem cell-based embryo model (SCBEM) research, highlighting areas for improvement such as citizen participation, coordination, and informed consent. The authors propose a framework to alleviate complexities, treating fertilized embryos distinctly from SCBEMs and relying on committees...
JMIR Human Factors invites submission on human factors in health care
The journal JMIR Human Factors is inviting submissions for a new theme issue focusing on human factors in health care education, management, and knowledge translation. The issue aims to explore current and emergent educational and training aspects of human factors, including digital competencies for healthcare professionals.
Nationally recognized for sustainability in health care
Two medical centers at UC San Diego Health have been named Top 25 hospitals in the nation for exceptional sustainability efforts. The institutions are committed to advancing health care and leadership in environmental stewardship.
Team publishes correspondence article reevaluating ‘seriousness’ in genetic conditions
A survey of stakeholders in Japan found that incorporating patient voices into assessments of genetic conditions can recalibrate people's ideas about seriousness, shifting perceptions from a tool of societal burden reduction to individual reproductive autonomy. The study emphasizes the need for including patient voices in shaping ethic...
The Online Journal of Public Health Informatics invites submissions on opportunities and challenges in the applications of AI in public health informatics
The application of AI in public health informatics offers potential to revolutionize data collection, disease surveillance, decision-making, and interventions. However, its implementation faces technical, ethical, and operational challenges related to health equity, privacy, security, and bias.
Tinker Tots: A citizen science project to explore ethical dilemmas in embryo selection
The Tinker Tots project enables participants to engage with ethical dilemmas in embryo selection, providing valuable insights into human values and decision-making. By navigating rounds of embryo selection dilemmas, users weigh and prioritize traits and conditions, revealing patterns in their thought processes.
My robot therapist: The ethics of AI mental health chatbots for kids
Experts argue that AI mental health chatbots for kids may impair social development and worsen existing health inequities. Pediatric therapists rely on family relationships to ensure child safety, but AI chatbots lack this contextual information. The authors advocate for careful consideration of data representation and potential misuse.
Japanese researchers argue ChatGPT is ready to teach medical ethics
Researchers at Hiroshima University propose using Large language models like ChatGPT to teach medical ethics, citing their ability to cultivate virtue. The authors argue that LLMs can reduce the load on educators while providing a foundation for moral knowledge.
‘It's a shot, not a vaccine like MMR’: New skepticism prompts call for action
Researchers at Lancaster University discovered a new type of vaccine-specific scepticism, where some people perceive COVID-19 vaccines as 'not a vaccine' compared to MMR. This phenomenon may also apply to the flu vaccine, highlighting the need for clear public health messaging.
Ethics in patient preferences for AI–drafted responses to electronic messages
A survey study found patients have a mild preference for AI-written messages but experience decreased satisfaction when informed about AI involvement. Disclosure of AI involvement is essential to maintain patient autonomy and empowerment, despite potential minor impact on satisfaction.
Illinois researchers spearhead efforts to establish guidelines for personalized nutrition approaches
Researchers developed guiding principles for personalized nutrition approaches addressing users and beneficiaries, data collection and handling, methodology, and purpose. They also addressed the opportunities and challenges around data and regulatory issues in the field of personalized nutrition.
LehighU professors to host symposium seeking to enhance the reliability, inclusivity, and ethical impact of artificial intelligence in healthcare
A symposium at Lehigh University aims to explore challenges and solutions for improving AI's reliability, inclusivity and ethical impact in healthcare. The event will bring together researchers, clinicians and industry experts to foster cross-disciplinary collaboration and promote people-centered AI-enabled healthcare systems.
Guidelines for the creation of accessible consent materials and procedures: Lessons from research with autistic people and people with intellectual disability
The article presents guidelines for designing consent materials and procedures for autistic adults and people with intellectual disability, highlighting the importance of multiple modes to deliver content. These guidelines aim to improve accessibility and respectfulness in research with individuals on the autism spectrum.
New AI Tool Mimics Radiologist Gaze to Read Chest X-Rays
Researchers developed ItpCtrl-AI, a transparent AI framework that reads chest X-rays like a radiologist, providing accurate diagnoses and increasing trust in medical technology. The framework uses a gaze heat map to show the computer where to search for abnormalities and what section of the image requires less attention.
ChatGPT has the potential to improve psychotherapeutic processes
A study published in PLOS Mental Health found that ChatGPT's responses were generally rated higher than those written by therapists, particularly in terms of core psychotherapy guiding principles. The AI model was also found to contextualize more extensively, leading respondents to rate its responses higher on common therapy components.
Utah law allowing minors to revoke medical consent is ‘attacking the foundation of the US healthcare system’
A new law in Utah allows minors to revoke their informed consent for gender-affirming care, casting a cloud over the trusted process between doctors and patients. This legislation puts clinicians at risk of litigation and may limit access to necessary medical treatments.
First-ever ethics checklist for portable MRI brain researchers
The first-ever Portable MRI Research ELSI Checklist offers operational guidance for neuroscientists conducting research in community settings. The checklist provides practical tools to address issues such as participant safety, incidental findings, informed consent, and data privacy.
Avoiding patient abandonment – ethical approaches to 'untenable' patient relationships
The article outlines three pathways to manage patients with complex psychiatric conditions, focusing on achieving the best possible patient-centered clinical outcomes. Plastic surgeons may face challenging relationships with patients, particularly those with underlying psychiatric issues.