Ethics Committee
The Mary Greeley Medical Center Bio-Ethics Committee helps patients and families make difficult decisions that are sometimes necessary when facing a health crisis.
There is no real way to prepare yourself for having to make a medical decision that may save, or end, a life – but sometimes that decision has to be made. If you feel that you are unable to come to a decision with your physician and treatment team, our Bio-Ethics Committee is here to provide support in helping you decide what to do.
Who is on the committee
The committee includes nurses, social workers, physicians, clergy, lawyers and community representatives. The specific issues confronting you or your loved one will determine which members will be involved in evaluating your case.
How it Works
When you feel you need assistance, consult with your nursing unit clinical supervisor. Here's what will happen:
- Within 24 hours, a group of Bio-Ethics Committee members will evaluate your case and determine if it should be taken to the full committee.
- If the full committee meets, it will research the options and communicate them to the patient, physicians and treatment team.
- Based on the information provided by the Bio-Ethics Committee, the patient or his/her representative, the physician and the treatment team will reach a decision.
The Bio-Ethics Committee will not make a decision for you. It offers ethical options and helps analyze the situation on a case by case basis. Among those items to be considered are your desires, legal liabilities, written or oral self-directives, and whether or not there is a consensus that will allow each member of the group to be comfortable with the outcome.
