1A) Thomasma suggests that the truth cannot be withheld by those who are in place to deliver it. He also states that telling the truth is to be held up as a moral rule because in telling the truth it expresses the respect an individual holds for the person who is being given the truth. Regarding medical cases he argues that all patients deserve to know the truth and that to withhold the truth or lie is something that goes against kindness. When an individual tells the truth it can be seen as a utility because it aids in the ability to make an informed decision. Thomasma also makes the point that in all circumstances in individuals default mode should be set to tell the truth.
1B) When it comes to paternalism, Thomasma does stand on the side …show more content…
With regard to large medical facilities such as hospitals he brings up the notion of limiting access to medical records by providing access on a need to know basis. He also addresses the notion that patients need to be properly informed of what is considered medically confidential; this way patients will have a better understanding of who needs their information and for what purposes Both of these solutions may not completely solve the problems brought up with confidentiality but giving the patient control of their records along with the other solutions will have a positive impact as a whole.
6A) With the emphasis on autonomy of a patient, respecting beliefs and practices of other cultures can carry with it unintended harm towards patients. For example some cultures see modern medicine as unnecessary or something that violates their specific beliefs. If a patient requires medication but the doctor chooses to respect their values the doctor may cause harm to the patient since the medication or treatment was never taken.
6B) For an individual, their culture is often part of their identity and to be intolerant of an individual’s culture is to be disrespectful. Within the field of medicine it is typically up to the patient to make a decision on their preferred course of treatment. Doctors must take a patients cultural and belief practices into consideration while at the same time walking a thin line between respect and what is