"Why Doctors Should Intervene"

Paper Summary:

This paper summarizes the main points presented in Terrence Ackerman's article on patient autonomy. The paper supports Ackerman's contention that there are times when patient autonomy and a policy of non-interference are not sufficiently broad enough to address the real needs of the patient. Under these conditions, it is argued, it is the duty of the attending physician to intervene and take control of the patient's medical treatment.

From the Paper:

"Ackerman defines patient autonomy as a policy which has helped formulate a number of patient rights. The right to refuse treatment is one of the key choices which should lie in the patient's control. Patient autonomy has given rise to the right to give informed consent to the doctor / medical staff prior to receiving treatment, and the right to receive competition medical care. These rights have been used to form a larger understanding of the policy of non-interference by the doctor and staff once a patient has made his or her decision. Once a patient has expressed his or her desires, the medical staff, in order to honor the patient's autonomy, is required to take a step back, and allow the patient to have control over their own lives."

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