Principals of Ethics

Question 1

What is a fiduciary duty?

Answer 1

• A legal duty to act soley in another party’s interest
• One may not profit from the relationship with money put up by patients unless they have their express consent (money by patient, so can profit from government funding when billing)
• Need consent for non-insured costs the patient will pay

Question 2

Define autonomy

Answer 2

• An individuals right and ability to decide for themselves according to their beliefs and values

Question 3

Define Beneficence

Answer 3

• The patient-based “best interests” standard
• Combines doing good, avoiding harm, patient values, beliefs and preference
• Maximize benefits while limiting risk
• Very important esp. when consent/choice not possible

Question 4

Define Non-Maleficence

Answer 4

• Obligation to avoid doing harm

- Part of the beneficence principal

Question 5

Define the justice principal

Answer 5

• Fair distribution of benefits & harm within a community
• Concept of fairness
• Is the patient recieving what they deserve
• Are patients in same situations treated equally

Question 6

Define Competence

Answer 6

• The ability or capacity to make a specific decision for oneself

Question 7

Which organization developed the code of ethics for Canadian physicians, residents, and med students?

Answer 7

• Canadian Medical Assoication