Ethics in Health Care

Not everyone knows what ethics mean in health care. Alot of people have strong ethical and moral values, especially in Miami, but don't know what to do when those values come into conflict with the health care needs of the patient.

One of the biggest controversial issues in health care is abortion. We talked a bit about the morning-after pill, the myths surrounding it and what we should do as health care professionals if someone asks for it. Some pharmacists have even refused to fill out prescriptions for the pill, stating that it is a form of abortion, not giving the women who seek them information on other professionals who can help them.

If we ever find ourselves at odds with our patient, it's best to redirect them to someone who can help them, not just refusing to give them care. We must approach all patients with an open mind, although that easier to say than do. I understand not assisting a patient with an abortion should the situation arise, but refusing to care for a patient after she's had the abortion is not just a statement but an act of medical negligence -- at least, in my opinion.