Ethical Challenges in Medicine

Abstract

From the very beginning of medical practice, physicians have enjoyed a degree of autonomy which exceeds that of almost any other profession. Although regulated by state medical boards, and limited by the threat of litigation, physicians are generally held in high esteem by society and allowed to practice medicine as they see fit. Physicians have usually been allowed to prescribe any drug for any disease, including the so-called “off-label” uses for which Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval has not been obtained. They can also use new or untested medical devices and surgical procedures, as long as they obtain informed consent from the patient. Society has trusted doctors to do the right thing for their patients, and thus tried not to interfere with the sacred doctor–patient relationship.

Citation

Rothberg, M. (2005), "Ethical Challenges in Medicine", Pava, M.L. and Primeaux, P. (Ed.) Crisis and Opportunity in the Professions (Research in Ethical Issues in Organizations, Vol. 6), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 21-41. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1529-2096(05)06002-5