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Medical Ethics: History and Guiding Principals

In: Historical Events

Submitted By aldot
Words 1879
Pages 8
Title: Medical Ethics: History and Guiding Principles

Author: Alan J. McGoldrick

Course: Medicine, Disease and History

Instructor: Professor Foss

Date: June 15, 2012

Medical ethics are the moral guidelines and ethical laws that help to prioritize a medical professional's work responsibilities. The code of medical ethics outlines the proper conduct between medical professionals and their patients, communities, and colleagues. Each country has a different code of medical ethics, though most contain the same basic principles, and all share the same history of evolution, according to the World Medical Association.
Medical ethics refers to the discussion and application of moral values and responsibilities in the areas of medical practice and research. While questions of medical ethics have been debated since the beginnings of Western medicine in the fifth century B.C., medical ethics as a distinctive field came into prominence only since World War II. (Porter, 1998) This change has come about largely as a result of advances in medical technology, scientific research, and telecommunications. These developments have affected nearly every aspect of clinical practice, from the confidentiality of patient records to end-of-life issues. Moreover, the increased involvement of government in medical research as well as the allocation of health care resources brings with it an additional set of ethical questions.

Emerging Medical Ethics Through the Ages

Ancient Medical Texts
A century after the time of Hippocrates, the cultures of India and China had established a groundwork of morals and virtues to be exemplified by medical practitioners. These first guidelines established models of physician humility, concern, and compassion for patients. Religions of this time influenced the creation of this code of behavior by establishing a basic understanding of the

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