Ethics in Medicine

It has been said that the bricks making up the foundation of the relationship between provider and patient are knowledge and communication. The mortar that forms the basis for trust is integrity and ethical behavior of all participants in the relationship. In obstetrics and gynecology ethical dilemmas deal with the provacative issues surrounding the beginnings of life, the nature of parenting, and the control of individual patients over their own destiny. Some say ethical dilemmas only arise when there are conflicting obligations, rights, or claims. A consensus of values must often be sought when the patient is cared for by a team. The principle of autonomy may form the underlying basis for resolving many ethical questions and will determine appropriate attitudes toward confidentiality, privacy, and the ultimate primacy of the patient in making treatment decisions. We all bring our past and multiple experiences to the table when dealing with ethical dilemmas. We must work to understand each other, empathize with the patient, reach out and meet them where they are. This is the responsibilty of the provider. Is your provider doing this?