Articles tagged with Medical Ethics
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A global survey aims to capture public attitudes towards sharing genomic results, with implications for genetic research and healthcare. Participants will provide their views on the ethics of genetic testing and data sharing.
The American College of Physicians has released the sixth edition of its Ethics Manual, covering topics such as culturally sensitive care, social media professionalism, and research ethics. The manual provides guidance for clinicians, educators, and researchers on navigating complex ethical dilemmas in medical practice.
John E. Wennberg, MD, MPH, received the first MacLean Center Prize in Clinical Ethics and Health Outcomes for his pioneering research on clinical medical ethics and health outcomes. His studies have revealed patterns of practice variation and the importance of patient engagement in decision making.
A new project by The Hastings Center explores the medical safety net for undocumented immigrants in the US, highlighting the challenges of providing care to those without insurance. The project aims to clarify policy choices and identify consequences for patients, healthcare professionals, and organizations.
A team of researchers led by Gloria Petersen, Ph.D., will examine family preferences and produce a detailed analysis of legal and ethical issues surrounding the sharing of genetic research results with relatives. The five-year study aims to establish best practices for navigating this complex issue as bio banks archive genetic data.
A Vanderbilt University researcher is leading a $5.7 million study on the ethical and legal implications of sharing genomic research results with minors, seeking to establish best practices for such decisions.
The article explores the ethics of gallows humor in medicine, with author Katie Watson arguing that some joking between medical professionals can be beneficial. She suggests that the key to deciding when gallows humor is okay lies in understanding the intent and impact of jokes on patients and power dynamics.
A new MSU study aims to develop a model of community engagement to guide ethical questions surrounding the use of newborn blood spots in research, addressing issues like informed consent and resource prioritization. The project seeks to inform public policy decisions and improve the state's bio-bank, Michigan BioTrust.
A new report from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine calls for policies to prepare individuals and society for earlier diagnosis of Alzheimer's. Safeguards are needed to protect those at high risk or with a pre-clinical diagnosis, including laws and policies to prevent stigma and discrimination.
A European review of child organ donations highlights legal, ethical and cultural barriers across countries. The shortage of deceased donors from children is exacerbated by incompatible organ size and low donation rates.
A study found that a US Army battlefield ethics training program decreased reports of unethical conduct among soldiers and increased their willingness to report misconduct. The program, which included video clips and leader-led discussions, was associated with lower rates of self-reported unethical behavior.
The Hastings Center will use the grant to develop educational resources on ethical issues in biomedical research, including alternatives to animal models. The project aims to promote nuanced thinking on animal welfare and medical progress.
Decertification of physicians participating in lethal injections by professional certifying organizations goes too far, argue Lawrence Nelson and Brandon Ashby. The authors examine the role of physicians in lethal injections and find that they can reduce risk while not advancing or harming ethical medicine principles.
Survivors with pre-existing mental conditions, such as schizophrenia and dementia, are vulnerable to long-term harm after disasters. Disaster-response planners must prioritize their needs alongside those of physically injured individuals.
Physicians may be complicit in torture if they care for patients at the request of their torturers, but refusing treatment can abandon a patient in need. Guidelines suggest minimizing complicity by assessing consequences and following patient requests to mitigate or prevent acts of torture.
A report by the Nuffield Council on Bioethics finds current biofuels policies to be unethical due to their impact on the environment and human rights. The council recommends a certification scheme to ensure environmentally sustainable and 'human rights friendly' biofuels.
The article explores the complex topic of assessing quality of life in children with life-threatening conditions, highlighting personal essays from patients, parents, and caregivers. The pieces illustrate various challenges and perspectives on disabilities, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in healthcare.
A UK policy aims to assess drug value using factors beyond clinical and cost effectiveness, including therapeutic innovation and societal benefits. The proposed 'value-based pricing' policy could change the way drugs are offered through Britain's National Health Service.
A new study found that most US states lack clear policies on storing and using newborn blood samples, often leaving parents in the dark. The researchers emphasize the need for transparent approaches to ensure parents are informed about how their babies' leftover blood might be used.
A new report by University of Leicester historian Dr. Kim Price draws parallels between past and present medical negligence, warning that the UK's Coalition Government reforms may undermine patient trust. The paper argues that similar policies in the late 19th century led to widespread neglect and poor health outcomes.
A Spanish study found that women are more empathetic and better at forgiving than men. The research also showed that parents forgive more than children, with lack of bitterness being the key condition for forgiveness.
Tests on children with developmental difficulties have led to discovery of genetic disorders, also revealing parentage information. In cases where a quarter or more of the genome is the same, the likely cause is almost certainly an incestuous relationship.
Ethicists call for UK legislation change to hold healthcare professionals accountable for patient neglect. Current law allows prosecution only when death results from serious error.
The ESHRE Task Force recommends evaluating IMAR requests based on four ethical principles: autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice. The group acknowledges benefits of IMAR but emphasizes potential psychosocial risks and importance of informed consent.
A new policy forum proposes treating participants as true stakeholders in research, fostering respectful engagement and acknowledging their willingness to take risks. Recent national events have increased attention on the use of biological samples in research, prompting calls for stronger regulations or opt-out models.
New research reveals that high-end hospital design features like private rooms and natural light can reduce healthcare-acquired infections and costs. Two case studies demonstrate the benefits of evidence-based design in hospitals and community health centers.
A survey of 405 postgraduate trainee doctors found that nearly three-quarters had a Facebook profile, with many sharing personal information and photos. The authors warn that this could lead to an ethically problematic situation if patients access their profiles, as it may be misinterpreted outside its original context.
Researchers are working on four different projects: studying MTB infection, analyzing latent infection in humans, improving chemotherapy for glioblastoma multiforme, and exploring gene modification for stem cell selection. The funding will support a multidisciplinary team of experts in proteomics, genetic epidemiology, and cytokine bio...
The Hastings Center has issued recommendations on growth attenuation, a controversial procedure used to restrict the growth of profoundly disabled children. The guidelines prioritize parental autonomy while establishing safeguards to ensure the child's well-being.
A study of retracted papers found US scientists were responsible for a third of all retractions, with one in three cases linked to data fabrication or falsification. Researchers from Asian nations also contributed significantly to the problem.
AMIA recommends contract language, education, and ethics to protect patient safety in HIT systems. The association calls for 'hold harmless' clauses to be declared unethical, and urges vendors and clients to adopt enterprise-wide ethics education.
The Hastings Center Report has published four essays on the next generation of bioethics, exploring new areas such as pharmaceutical industry ethics, public health, and regenerative medicine. These essays propose broadening the approach to dying and creating a framework for teaching an aging population to prepare for death.
The Hastings Center researchers and coauthors examine the challenges of providing health services to detainees in drug detention centers. They argue that leaders of health-related organizations should assess whether their programs promote health or exacerbate conditions.
Anna R. Brandon, PhD, was honored by the March of Dimes for her research on ethical barriers to perinatal mental health research. Her work aims to improve access to evidence-based treatment for pregnant women, ensuring they receive safe and effective care during pregnancy.
A recent study found that more than half of surrogate decision makers prefer to have full authority over the choice of life-support for incapacitated patients. However, a significant portion want to share or cede power to physicians. The extent of control varies based on trust in the physician overseeing care.
A new study published in PLOS ONE reveals that full-text analysis is needed to uncover duplicate citations in the scientific literature. The researchers found that most papers are novel, but certain sections like the introduction and methods section frequently have reused content. The study offers hope for developing guidelines on acce...
The Mayo Clinic review article distinguishes between withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatments and physician-assisted suicide or euthanasia. Palliative sedation is recognized as a legitimate therapy for refractory suffering, with informed patient consent and medical involvement.
A new study published in Palliative Medicine reveals that German physicians do hasten death in some cases, against current ethical guidelines, and often without sufficient patient involvement. Physicians with extra qualifications in palliative care were less likely to report deliberate actions to hasten death.
Patients with severe heart failure who request withdrawal of ventricular assist device (VAD) support have the right to do so, according to Mayo Clinic investigators. The VAD is a long-term treatment option for patients with severe heart failure, but some experience complications that lead them to request its removal.
The MRC refused to fund IVF research that led to the birth of Louise Brown, citing concerns about embryo quality and patient safety. The researchers argue for more complex reasons, including strategic errors by Edwards and Steptoe in their funding application.
The American Academy of Family Physicians accepted a large donation from Coca-Cola to fund obesity prevention materials, raising concerns about conflict of interest and loyalty to public health. In contrast, the organization's actions were seen as an effort to serve physicians and patients by addressing unmet public health needs.
A Johns Hopkins-led committee, sponsored by the FDA, will examine drug safety studies' scientific and ethical issues. The committee aims to deliver a report on July 1 outlining key considerations for clinical trials evaluating post-market drug safety.
Experts warn that poor scientific quality and lack of oversight can undermine the entire scientific enterprise. The authors propose four key questions to answer when proposing human studies of new therapies to safeguard medical research advancement.
RAM founder Stan Brock will be recognized for his 25-year commitment to delivering free healthcare worldwide. The Inamori Ethics Prize honors exemplary ethical leadership, and Brock joins Dr. Francis S. Collins and Mary Robinson as winners.
Research on individuals with impaired decision-making capacity, such as dementia patients, is crucial for developing future treatments. However, current guidelines are often arbitrary and prioritize individual interests over the well-being of these groups.
A study analyzing two popular medical dramas found that they often depict bioethical issues and actions that run afoul of professional codes of conduct. Informed consent was the most frequently observed issue, with exemplary discussions being more common than inadequate ones.
Researchers found that physicians prioritize what's best for the patient overall, followed by the patient's preferences and pain management. However, ageist assumptions may influence decision-making, with a decreased reliance on patient preferences among older adults.
Researchers found a persistent excess risk of death after hip fractures, especially in men, which does not return to pre-fracture levels even after 10 years. Additionally, an empirical study explored the ethics of payment for kidney donation, finding no association between price and willingness to donate across income levels, but highl...
A Johns Hopkins emergency physician describes the daily struggle of making emotionally difficult ethical decisions amidst a massive influx of patients and limited medical resources. The essay outlines how standards of care were adjusted to prioritize those most likely to benefit from treatment, raising concerns about inhumane medicine.
Duke University professor Amy Laura Hall argues that cultural views on evolution can have significant ethical implications. She critiques popularized ideas about evolution that reinforce racial biases, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of human development.
A UCSF team recommends modifying NIH stem cell guidelines to protect the rights of individuals donating egg or sperm to patients undergoing in vitro fertilization. The guidelines currently give IVF patients unrestricted authority over embryos leftover after fertility treatments.
A new checklist called CURVES (Choose and Communicate, Understand, Reason, Value, Emergency and Surrogate) has been developed to quickly assess a patient's decision-making capacity in emergency situations. The acronym helps physicians determine whether a patient is able to make decisions in life-or-death situations.
Women with severe obesity may receive assisted reproduction treatment if they can achieve significant weight loss. Smoking is also a concern, as it reduces fertility and increases the risk of miscarriage. The ESHRE Task Force on Ethics and Law suggests balancing patient autonomy with societal responsibilities and future child safety.
A Johns Hopkins neurologist argues that futile and expensive end-of-life care can be a major contributor to the unaffordable cost of healthcare. He suggests weighing patient autonomy against societal costs and suggests 'nudging' families towards comfort care, particularly in cases of premature births.
The American College of Physicians has issued a position paper to guide ethical relationships among patients, physicians, and caregivers. The paper outlines four primary principles for physicians to consider when collaborating with patients and caregivers, including respect for patient dignity and effective communication.
Genome-wide association studies are increasingly conducted in developing countries, raising ethical concerns about data release, privacy, and security. A study developed a 'managed' approach to oversee open access, define acceptable uses of data, and guide the timing of data release.
The Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth has launched a handbook for rural health care ethics, addressing the gaps in resources for regional clinicians. The guide covers case studies and personal ethical challenges faced by healthcare professionals in rural settings.
Bioethicists at Johns Hopkins University pose questions about the moral status of embryos created from induced pluripotent stem cells. The researchers advocate for clear ethical oversight to address concerns about the scientific achievement.
The March of Dimes has established two new awards to honor established scholars in perinatal ethics and encourage young researchers to enter the field. These awards will focus on moral issues before, during, and after pregnancy, including reproductive technologies and neonatal care.
A new study published in Developing World Bioethics argues that Argentinean fertility clinics are increasingly marketing themselves to international health care consumers offering all-inclusive packages with fixed prices for fertility treatments, citing non-accredited clinics as a concern for consumer safety and effectiveness.