Bio-Ethics in Practice (OTS-0202)

Fall 2023 · OTS 0202 · Tufts University · 3 credits · Undergraduate

In this course we will begin by overviewing the ethical theories that shape our answers to serious ethical dilemmas. In this part of the course we will first introduce philosophical moral theories, and look more closely at theories that apply particularly in bioethics, and finally introduce and develop an understanding of the concept of autonomy and how it relates to issues in biomedical ethics, paying particularly close attention to how different social and cultural factors effect health care interactions. We will examine issues of autonomy, especially of traditionally vulnerable populations. Students will learn to apply ethical theories to moral dilemmas currently confronting health care providers, patients and their families, and society at large. These topics will include: 1. How treat patients whose preferences for treatment conflict with the providers 2. moral objection to care 3. end of life care/respecting dignity at the end of life 4. disability ethics 5. moral dilemmas associated with surrogate decision-making 6. moral distress/burnout 7. professionalism/transparency in coding 8. owning of medical data (who owns/should have access to notes/billing etc.) patients' rights/autonomy 9. Caring for bigoted patients 10. providers' ethical obligations towards advocacy for vulnerable patients 11. Reporting of ethical violations 12. patient distrust/discrimination/disparities. Students will learn: information gathering, identifying different points of view, defining the dilemma, talking to the parties involved, negotiating goals and analysis of the case will be covered, culminating in a comprehensive write-up that can be utilized by the bioethicists or practitioners. We will also cover consultation process, goals of care, case analysis skills, futility, capacity, withholding and withdrawing life support, advance directives, informed consent, reproductive issues, and surrogate decision-making.

Course codes: OTS-0202, OTS 0202, OTS0202, OTS-202, OTS 202, OTS202

Course Discovery