Fatal fetal paternalism
Date
2012
Authors
Wilkinson, D.
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Journal article
Citation
Journal of Medical Ethics, 2012; 38(7):396-397
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Dominic Wilkinson
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Abstract
Heuser and colleagues’ survey of obstetricians provides a valuable insight into the current management of severe fetal anomalies in the United States. Their survey reveals two striking features – that counselling for these anomalies is far from neutral, and that there is significant variability between clinicians in their approach to management. In this commentary I outline the reasons to be concerned about both of these. Directiveness in counselling arguably represents a form of paternalism, and the evident variability in practice is likely the result of physician personal values. However, Heuser’s survey may, by shining a light on practice, provide an important step towards a more consistent approach.
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Copyright © 2012 by the BMJ Publishing Group Ltd & Institute of Medical Ethics. All rights reserved.