Ethics and Law in Modern Medicine

This text explores the field of medical ethics and health care decision-making through hypothetical case studies. One feature of this volume is that each chapter sets forth a hypothetical fact pattern which includes role assignments to encourage participants to take part in group discussions and debate the controversial topics that are presented. Each chapter includes discussion questions which explore issues raised by the hypothetical fact patterns, and suggested readings provide background for participants. Additionally, the volume contains excerpts from key statutes and case law which govern the decision-making process presented in each chapter. The volume covers a variety of issues including HIV, the health care rights of minors, consent and confidentiality, assisted reproductive technology, property rights in bodily organs, research ethics, religious freedom and the right to refuse care, rationing of scarce resources, surrogate decision-making, and several other traditional as well as unique ethical, legal, and social issues.