AMA Journal of Ethics^®

This month, AMA Journal of Ethics theme editor Margaret Cocks, MD, PhD, a third-year resident at Johns Hopkins Hospital, interviewed Theonia Boyd, MD, about ethical issues pathologists face when conducting autopsies and obtaining specimens.

McMaster University’s medical school curriculum promotes compassionate, person-centered care by incorporating the views of persons with disabilities.

A physician may withhold information from a patient if he believes that he is acting in accordance with the patient’s wishes and best interests.

This month, AMA Journal of Ethics theme editor Trisha Paul, a second-year medical student at the University of Michigan Medical School, interviewed Kelly Parent about what makes patient- and family-centered care an inclusive approach to health care delivery and how this approach is being implemented.

Since the 1970s, various factors have generated a shift in medical culture from the prioritization of individual autonomy to relational autonomy

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.

Art-based patient advocacy has expanded public awareness and opened the eyes of many to patients' health care experiences.

The University of Michigan Medical School (UMMS) implemented a major curriculum revision to incorporate patient- and family-centered care concepts.

When family members disagree with a patient about care planning, the physician might be able to facilitate a resolution.

Thoughtful design can welcome patients’ families’ roles in promoting healing. At the same time, clinicians’ need for functionality and privacy is critical. How ought these considerations be balanced in designing the spaces where patient care takes place?