When They Have Opened a Gap

The concept of provider medical conscientious objection is a controversial one that can stir a great deal of emotion. Provider medical conscientious objection involves the refusal by an individual, hospital, pharmacy, managed care organization, or other health industry worker to provide, be involved in, or pay for legal medical services based on religious or moral grounds. It often also involves a refusal to provide information about services or procedures being sought, and a refusal to provide a referral to another professional who would be willing to offer the information, services or procedures being sought. Those who advocate for the use of provider medical conscientious objection maintain that it is a necessary tool that allows healthcare providers to maintain their personal moral integrity in the face of requests for information, services or procedures that go against their values. Those who oppose it contend that it is in part a violation of professional ethics, patient autonomy and informed consent. In this thesis I examine arguments on both sides of the issue and provide a legal and legislative backdrop for these arguments. I offer examples of specific cases where aclaim of conscience has been made and analyze the outcomes. Finally, I offer recommendations for moving forward in a way that respects the morals and values of both patient and provider.

Grantor dc:publisher

Wake Forest University

Year dc:date.issued

2013

Author dc:creator

• Behar, Diane S.

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/10339/38591

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:wakespace.lib.wfu.edu:10339/38591