Ethics at Stamford Hospital

Bioethics Consultation Service

There may be times when you or your family is undecided about or in conflict with your plan of care. In this event, your healthcare team will work with you and your family to reach a resolution. The Bioethics Consultation Service is also available to help resolve the issues. Concerns that may arise involve —

• What to do when a patient may not understand the need for certain tests or treatments
• Who should make healthcare decisions for the patients when they cannot decide for themselves
• How to handle conflicts between the healthcare team and patient
• When to begin, continue or stop life-prolonging treatment interventions

A formal procedure has been established to request a consultation. Your physician or nurse can assist you in the process.

Bioethics Committee

Meeting monthly, the committee is comprised of representatives from all the major disciplines and departments in Stamford Hospital. Members include physicians, nurses, clergy, social workers, risk managers, patient representatives and community representatives. The role of the committee is to serve as an advisory body to the health system on issues of medical bioethics and on hospital policy regarding bioethical matters.

Another major task of the committee is to provide educational resources to the health system and to the general public. Speaker presentations, community forums and educational materials are part of the services provided.