Streamlining US health care business has raised unique privacy concerns. Bills and explanations of benefits contain protected health information that could be disclosed to someone other than the patient.
AMA J Ethics. 2016; 18(3):279-287. doi:
10.1001/journalofethics.2016.18.3.pfor4-1603.
Conflicts of interest must be acknowledged with sincerity and earnestness and managed such that the conflict is eliminated or, at least, credibly mitigated.
AMA J Ethics. 2023; 25(3):E186-193. doi:
10.1001/amajethics.2023.186.
Family-centered care is recommended for patients of all ages now, based on evidence that it can lead to compliance, improved communication, and better care planning. Hospitals where PFCC has been integrated report greater satisfaction among patients and staff.
AMA J Ethics. 2016; 18(1):40-44. doi:
10.1001/journalofethics.2016.18.1.medu3-1601.
When confidential medical information can prevent a serious harm to a third party, the patient’s prima facie right to confidentiality must be balanced against the physician’s prima facie obligation to prevent serious harm to that third party.
AMA J Ethics. 2015; 17(9):819-825. doi:
10.1001/journalofethics.2015.17.9.ecas1-1509.
April R. Christensen, MD, Tara E. Cook, MD, and Robert M. Arnold, MD
Physicians who are uncomfortable with patients’ requests to participate in prayer should pause, listen respectfully, and reflect back their understanding of the request, regardless of whether they pray.
AMA J Ethics. 2018; 20(7):E621-629. doi:
10.1001/amajethics.2018.621.
Chaplains can mediate between physicians and families by clarifying religious issues for physicians, who can then present treatment options informed by a patient’s priorities. Ideally, family and religious values and a physician’s judgment should work together to inform decision making.
AMA J Ethics. 2018; 20(7):E670-674. doi:
10.1001/amajethics.2018.670.