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Ethics-in-Hand-Physician-Version

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Stewardship of the Code of Medical Ethics
Composed of seven practicing physicians, a resident and a medical student, the Council on Ethical and Judicial Affairs (CEJA) is the steward of the American Medical Association (AMA) Code of Medical Ethics. Each year, CEJA writes opinions on a wide variety of ethical and professional issues that members of the profession confront in their practice, research and teaching. These opinions, which are based on interpretations of the “Principles of Medical Ethics,” are developed through a deliberative process and become part of the Code upon adoption by the AMA House of Delegates. Through this continual refinement, the Code serves as a contemporary guide for physicians who strive to practice ethically.

Q and A
Is it appropriate to withhold medical information from a patient, especially in an emergency situation or when the patient is not medically sound? Response based on the Code of Medical Ethics: n Physicians should never withhold information from their patients. In emergency situations or when communication with the patient is not feasible, information can be delayed. However, it must be disclosed as soon as the patient is able to make an informed choice about whether he or she wants to receive this information. n Physicians should establish a preferred method of disclosure with their patients before information becomes available and follow the patient’s preference regarding what should be disclosed and to whom—the patient, a designated caregiver or family member. Physicians should disclose medical information in a sensitive and respectful manner, and should assess the amount of information the patient is able to receive at a given time.

n

Due to an increase in tuberculosis cases in a heavily populated Latino community, many patients have been placed in isolation or quarantined. Local Latino community leaders

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