Breaking Bad News

Delivering difficult or potentially life-altering information to patients is a solemn responsibility of physicians and all who have the privilege of caring for the sick and injured. Breaking bad news is an artful skill that requires the ability to strike a balance between providing hard facts and offering tender hope while ministering to a patient’s emotional reaction to this news.^1,2,3,4

For over a quarter of a century, the AMA Journal of Ethics has striven to publish insightful commentaries, engaging podcasts, and provocative artwork that help medical students, physicians, and all health care professionals reflect on and make sound ethical decisions in service to patients and society.⁵ I write to inform you that the AMA Journal of Ethics will cease publishing new content after December 2025. Understandably, this news will be sad and unexpected for the journal’s readers and supporters. I share in this loss.

Previously published content will be maintained on the journal’s website and remain freely available to all in keeping with our guiding premise that ethics inquiry is a public good. With humility, I am hopeful and confident that this archived journal content will stay evergreen for years to come. 

Lastly, I want to extend my deepest thanks to the many authors, artists, peer reviewers, editorial board members, theme issue editors and fellows, and staff colleagues who have dedicated their time and talents to advance the AMA Journal of Ethics’ editorial mission of “illuminating the art of medicine.” I will be forever grateful for your kindness and contributions. 

Fiat lux and take good care.