Week 1 Discussion

A legal right is determined as unconditional and entitled, without regard for financial resources, health insurance, or social status. If healthcare were a recognized legal right in the United States:

· Compare the potential advantages and disadvantages to the individual, the taxpayer, the healthcare system, the government, and the economy.

· Discuss the ethical considerations for your healthcare position.

Week 2 Discussion

The Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA) were legally enacted to prevent hospitals from refusing care for those that cannot pay. This law applies when an individual has an emergency, and requests treatment for the emergency.

How does EMTALA embrace the ethical principles of justice and autonomy, and how might it hinder quality care for a patient?

Week 3 Discussion

Malpractice Lawsuits involve medical error: a negligent act by a healthcare provider that falls below the expected standard of care. These acts can be very costly to the healthcare industry. Medical Malpractice Law in the United States (2005) describes issues surrounding these laws.

Discuss your views on the impact that medical malpractice lawsuits have on the delivery of healthcare in the United States. How do you believe they should change the law, if at all?

Budetti, P., & Waters, T. (2005). Medical Malpractice Law in the United States, Washington DC: The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation.(2005) Retrieved from https://kaiserfamilyfoundation.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/medical-malpractice-law-in-the-united-states-report.pdf.

Week 4 Discussion

Consider the role of hospice and palliative medicine at the end-of-life. What are your beliefs on care after a terminal diagnosis is made? Now, research your states’ advance directive law (or that of a state of your choice). Describe the law in your words and describe the functions of the form.

Does the form contain information on power of attorney? Does the form contain information on the living will? Should extraordinary care continue, or are comfort measures only the best option?

Week 5 Discussion

While stem cell research and human cloning are often interrelated, there are differences in these two approaches. Stem cell research has many medical inclinations for the treatment of disease. While it is the basis of human cloning, and its purpose clear for that approach, there is much debate in healthcare about where to stop with stem cell research.

Describe your current position on stem cell research and human cloning. What ethical issues are involved in stem cell research and human cloning? Do you think that any concerns are outweighed by potential benefits? Explain.