Who Determines Best Interest?

When Dr M enters the room, he finds an ill man who appears to be in marked discomfort, despite receiving moderate doses of narcotic analgesia. They begin by reviewing Mr A’s medical chart, including a CT scan of his spine that shows multiple large masses.

Dr M refers Mr A to a pain specialist and recommends that he begin chemotherapy and radiation the following week, after he has a few more days to gain some strength but before too much time passes. Mr A tentatively agrees, but Dr M is afraid that he will not return for follow-up.

• If Mr A chooses not to show up for additional treatment, does Dr M bear any further responsibility?
• Which ethical principles are in conflict with each other?
• Which ethical principal carries the most weight? Why?

Apply Theory (Specific Professional Healthcare Competencies + Clinical Medical Ethical Principles) to Practice in order to provide Optimal Patient-Centered Care (OPCC)