The proof of the vegetable: a commentary on medical futility

Article Abstract:

Patients with 'persistent vegetative state' are taken as examples of unconscious human beings in the discussion of medical ethics, but there is little actual evidence of their state of consciousness. Persistent vegetative state is often used as a hypothetical limiting case, but such arguments should not be applied to real world cases without careful consideration. The diagnosis can only be made retrospectively, since it cannot be determined in advance whether the state will persist. It is also difficult to distinguish an unconscious state from a state in which the patient is conscious but unable to communicate.

Research, Persistent vegetative state

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Principles of the German Medical Association Concerning Terminal Medical Care

Article Abstract:

The text of the German Medical Association's Principles Concerning Terminal Medical Care is given in English. Topics include the doctor's duties to the dying, behaviour towards patients with an infaust prognosis, treatment of other types of life-threatening conditions, determination of the patient's will, advance directives, precautionary healthcare authorisations and healthcare instructions.

Germany, Standards, Terminal care, German Medical Association

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Polymorphic medical ontologies: fashioning concepts of disease

Article Abstract:

This article analyzes medical ethics and the social construction of the concepts of disease and health. Topics addressed include how medical authority is influenced by social and environmental factors, as well as moral and religious values.

United States, Social aspects, Diseases, Medical policy, Health policy

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