Moral Theories - Scenario 2

View the full Interactive Tutorial at:
http://www.phgfoundation.org/tutorials/moral.theories/7.html

Consider this scenario: A woman goes to her doctor to receive the results of a genetic test. The results show she does have the condition for which she was tested and this allows her doctor to prescribe a treatment strategy that will reduce her symptoms and delay (and perhaps prevent) the progression of the condition. Her doctor knows from their discussions that the woman has an identical twin sister and he asks if she is going to tell her sister of the test results. The sister could then undergo genetic testing herself and perhaps enter treatment. The woman says she does not want her family to know about her condition; as well she will not talk to her sister as they are not on speaking terms. The doctor knows the womans twin should be notified so that she can be helped also, but he has a duty of care to his patient. Which principles should be considered when trying to decide how to proceed? * Autonomy * Nonmaleficence * Beneficence * Justice.

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[nowayout001]

@zeroskater101 Yes, there are boards that decide decisions like this but having the right to do something doesn't automatically make it right. We actually have the right to kill ourselves, believe it or not, but is it right to do so? Now, that's up to you.

[sirbestnameever]

tell the twin,if u could save a life for your job would u do it

[zeroskater101]

Actually, you are completely wrong. They have specific boards that decide decisions like this. The doctor does have the right to notify the sister. The matter of this situation is above confidentiality.

[PeekMouse]

The doctor does nothing. He has an obligation to keep his confidentiality. Somehow the one sister knew she had the condition, or might have it, so the other could know it as well. Whether or not she knows is not the issue. The only thing the doctor has to consider is his own patient, not the sister of his patient.

[n0fa1th]

This one is far more interesting that the first. I would say the doctor contacts the sister regardless. The doctors first duty is to do no harm. Let the courts figure out the rest.