Ethics, Conflict and Medical Treatment for Children: From disagreement to dissensus

The case of Charlie Gard, in 2017, sparked a global debate about the ethics of disagreements between doctors and parents, the role of the law, and the varying approaches between different parts of the world. In this book, medical ethicists Dominic Wilkinson and Julian Savulescu examine the ethical questions at the heart of such disputes, using the Gard case as a springboard. They discuss other prominent UK and international cases and outline the strongest arguments for and against treatment. They propose a radical new framework for future cases of disagreement.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 192 pages
\n Publication date: 04 September 2018
\n Publisher: Elsevier Health Sciences
\n

When doctors and parents disagree about what would be best for a child, it can be a challenging and complex situation. In such cases, it is important to consider the ethical implications and to seek guidance from medical professionals and legal experts. One such case that gained widespread attention in 2017 was the case of Charlie Gard, a young boy with a rare genetic condition who was at the center of a legal battle between his parents and doctors. In this case, the parents wanted to continue providing life support for their son, while the doctors argued that the treatment was not in his best interests and would only prolong his suffering.

The ethics of disagreements between doctors and parents are complex and multifaceted. On the one hand, parents have the right to make decisions about their children's medical care based on their beliefs and values. On the other hand, doctors are responsible for providing medical advice and treatment that is in the best interests of their patients. When there is a disagreement between doctors and parents, it is important to consider the following factors:

1. The child's best interests: The primary concern in any medical decision should be the well-being and best interests of the child. Doctors must weigh the potential benefits and risks of any treatment and consider the child's physical, emotional, and psychological needs. Parents must also be aware of their child's condition and the potential outcomes of different treatments.

2. Limited resources: Medical treatments can be expensive, and healthcare systems may have limited resources available. In such cases, doctors may need to prioritize treatments based on their effectiveness and cost-effectiveness. Parents may also have financial concerns that may impact their ability to access certain treatments.

3. Legal and ethical considerations: In some cases, disagreements between doctors and parents may involve legal and ethical considerations. For example, if a treatment is considered experimental or risky, there may be legal restrictions on its use. In such cases, doctors may need to seek legal advice to ensure that they are acting within the bounds.

4. Cultural and religious beliefs: Cultural and religious beliefs can also play a role: a role in medical decisions, particularly in cases where there is a significant difference between the parents' beliefs and the medical advice provided. In such cases, it is important to respect the parents' wishes and to find a compromise that is in the best interests of the child.

5. The role of courts: In some cases, disagreements between doctors and parents may reach a point where they cannot be resolved by negotiation or mediation. In such cases, courts may become involved in the decision-making process. The decision to involve courts in such disputes is a complex one, and it is important to consider the following:

1. The child's best interests: The primary concern in any legal decision should be the well-being and best interests of the child. Courts must weigh the evidence presented by both sides. doctors and parents and make a decision based on the best available evidence.

2. The parents' wishes: Courts must also consider the wishes of the parents, particularly if they are the legal guardians of the child. However, courts must also balance the parents' wishes with the child's best interests.

3. The medical advice: Courts must also consider the medical advice provided by doctors, particularly if they are experts in the child's condition. However, courts must also be aware of the potential biases and conflicts of interest of doctors and may need to seek independent medical advice.

4. The legal framework: The legal framework in different countries may vary, and courts must be aware of the specific legal framework in their jurisdiction.

5. The interests of other stakeholders: Courts must also consider the interests of other stakeholders, such as siblings, grandparents, and other family members.

In conclusion, when doctors and parents disagree about what would be best for a child, it is important to seek guidance from medical professionals and legal experts. The ethics of disagreements between doctors and parents are complex and multifaceted, and it is important to consider the child's best interests, limited resources, legal and ethical considerations, cultural and religious beliefs, and the role of courts. The decision to involve courts in such disputes is a complex one, and it is important to consider the best available evidence, the parents' wishes, the medical advice provided, the legal framework, and the interests of other stakeholders. By working together. together, parents, doctors, and legal experts can work towards the best interests of the child and ensure that they are making decisions that are in the child's best interests.

\n Weight: 314g\n
Dimension: 154 x 229 x 10 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780702077814\n \n