Question

Describe issue of autonomy as it relates to medicine. What is it and when could it come up in medicine? Use one example of autonomy from the case studies we have read in our book. Then explain how one consequentialist ethical theory could deal with autonomy in medicine and one deontological ethical theory could deal with the issue of autonomy.

Answer 1

Autonomy is one of the ethical principles of medicine. The adult patient has the autonomy to take their own medical decisions. This is followed based on informed consent and agreement. The individual has the right to choose their own treatment regarding advanced directives. The physician has to respect the patient's interest and follow the laws as per the ethical concerns. For example, the Patient has the right to take a decision not to use life support devices during emergencies. The patient can have advanced directives regarding their health care. The Physician can only guide the patient to take the right decisions.

Consequentialist ethical theory is the selection of the best option. The major principle of this theory is to justify the decisions that have chosen. It focuses on the rightness and wrongness of the patient's decision. It focuses on the outcomes of the treatment due to patient autonomy. It is contrary to moral goods.

Deontology is the promoting of benefit to the individual rather than harm. But the decisions do not promote better health care for society. It promotes tradition and improves the relationship with the patient. But it arises medical negligence. It does not have specific rules and guidelines in making decisions. Sometimes the patient may choose the wrong decision in their treatment which affects the confidentiality about the physician.