PHI3200_AliciaMosley_Assessmemt4_Attempt1
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Feb 20, 2024
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Uploaded by JudgeScience11298
Alicia Mosley
January 2024
Ethics in healthcare
Robbing the Dead
Organ conscription refers to the idea of mandated organ donation, where individuals are presumed to be organ donors unless they explicitly opt-out. This challenges the opt-in organ donation systems and aims to address the persistent gap between organ supply and demand. Examining the ethical considerations surrounding organ conscription involves evaluating the principles of autonomy, and the impact on trust in the healthcare system. Some people may argue
that organ conscription infringes upon individual autonomy by assuming consent unless explicitly refused, which I do agree so myself. The respect of autonomy is a major foundational principle in medical ethics. While aiming to address the scarcity of organs, organ conscription can raise concerns about individual freedom and the right to make decisions about one’s own body. It is crucial to consider how such policies align with principles of informed consent and respect for personal choices.
The morality of organ conscription is subjective and depends on individual values, cultural norms, and ethical frameworks. I believe that organ conscription could address the critical shortage of organs in transplantation, potentially saving lives and promoting the greater
good of humanity. This goes back to the relation to the principle of beneficence increasing the availability of organs aligns with the ethical goal of promoting well-being. Other people may argue that it may cause infringement on individual autonomy. Presuming consent and mandating organ donation may violate a person’s right to make decisions about their own body. Several ethical theories are relevant to the policy of organ conscription, each offering a unique perspective on the moral considerations involved. It can influence how individuals and societies perceive the ethical soundness of organ conscription policies. Utilitarianism evaluates the morality of actions based on their overall utility or the greatest good for the greatest number. In this context, utilitarianism might support policies that maximize the number of available organs for transplantation, potentially saving more lives and promoting overall societal well-
being. The potential infringement on individual autonomy must be weighed against the overall utility. Virtue ethics may emphasize the importance of cultivating virtues such as compassion, justice, and respect for autonomy in the development and evaluation of organ conscription policies. The emphasis would be on policies that promote virtuous behaviors and values within the healthcare system.
Alternatives to organ conscription can be considered ethical in healthcare because they uphold principles such as individual autonomy, informed consent, transparency, and equitable access to healthcare services. These alternatives will prioritize respect for individuals’ rights and choices while promoting a culture of voluntary donation for the greater good. Voluntary organ donation and other alternatives approach the principle of individual autonomy. Individuals have the right to make decisions about their bodies, including whether or not to donate their organs. It also relies on informed consent to ensure that patients are fully aware of the implications of their decision to donate. This could involve providing a clear understanding about the donation
process, potential risks, and benefits. It will allow patients to make decisions based on their own values and preferences. Ethical alternatives are more likely to gain public support and participation. Public acceptance and trust are crucial for the success of organ donation programs. Strategies in places that align with ethical principles are more likely to receive widespread support from numerous communities.
Respecting a patient’s decision regarding organ conscription is paramount in upholding the patient’s rights. A patient’s choice to either opt for or reject organ conscription reflects their personal beliefs and values over their own body. In honoring a patient’s decision, healthcare professionals acknowledge the importance of informed consent, with the understanding that the patient has a comprehensive understanding of the implications of their choice. This will also foster a relationship built on trust between healthcare providers and patients. Trust is a cornerstone of effective healthcare delivery, and when patients feel that their autonomy is respected, it contributes to a positive and collaborative healthcare experience.
Dalal, A. R. (2015). Philosophy of Organ Donation: Review of Ethical Facets. World Journal of Transplantation
, 5
(2), 44. https://doi.org/10.5500/wjt.v5.i2.44
Ethical Constraints of Organ Rationing
. (n.d.). Bioethics.hms.harvard.edu. https://bioethics.hms.harvard.edu/news/ethical-constraints-organ-rationing
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Gardiner, D., McGee, A., & Shaw, D. (2021). Two fundamental ethical and legal rules for deceased organ donation. BJA Education
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(8). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjae.2021.03.003
OPTN. (2015). Ethics - Ethical Principles in the Allocation of Human Organs - OPTN
. Optn.transplant.hrsa.gov. https://optn.transplant.hrsa.gov/professionals/by-
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