Ethics Cases

what are the standards of practice for PT?

administration of PT service, patient and client management, education, advocacy, research, community responsibility

what documents should you be aware of when making decisions?

federal legislation, state practice act, state laws, insurance contracts, APTA code of ethics, APTA guide for professional conduct

what is an ethical dilemma?

when value systems are challenged by 2 different actions or courses of action to take upon a situation

is an ethical dilemma the same as a legal dilemma?

no

examples of advocation for changes in legislation

civil disobedience, whistleblowing

gray zone in the four quadrant model

unethical and legal

steps of the ethical decision making framework

understand background, identify specific ethical questions, consider related ethical principles or organizational values, determine options for action, choose or recommend, review outcome

what is medical futility?

used to describe a treatment/therapy/POC that should not be performed bc most up to date and available evidence shows it may not improve the patient’s condition

what is informed consent?

process where pt makes voluntary decision to undergo a treatment after they have been educated about risks/benefits/alternatives

required elements for informed consent

nature of procedure, risks/benefits, reasonable alternatives, risks/benefits of alternatives, assessment of patient understanding of all of these elements

exception to informed consent

language barrier in emergent/critical situation (treatment can commence if consent is implied)

exceptions to HIPPA

OBRA, IDEA

what are pro bone services?

free services for uninsured or underinsured individuals

can you waive patient’s copays and deductibles if they cannot afford?

no (fraud and illegal practice)