Services on Demand
Article
Indicators
Related links
- Cited by Google
- Similars in Google
Share
South African Journal of Bioethics and Law
On-line version ISSN 1999-7639
Abstract
LUTCHMAN, S. Inserting microethics into paediatric clinical care: A consideration of the models of the doctor-patient relationship. SAJBL [online]. 2023, vol.16, n.2, pp.59-62. ISSN 1999-7639. http://dx.doi.org/10.7196/sajbl.2023.v16i2.515.
Microethics is about the ethics of everyday clinical practice. The subtle nuances in communication between doctor and patient (the doctor's choice of words, tone, body language, gestures, etc.) can influence the exercise of the patient's autonomy. The four models of the doctor-patient/physician-patient relationship (paternalistic, informative, interpretive, deliberative) weigh respect for autonomy and beneficence in varying proportions. Each model may be appropriate in certain circumstances. This article considers these models from the perspective of microethics and the unique dimensions created by the doctor-child-parent relationship. In particular, the article considers the nuances to the autonomy principle created by the child's developing maturity and the parent's role as a co-fiduciary of the child's interests. Ultimately, the deliberative model seems most appropriate to the paediatric setting, since it accommodates the child's developing maturity in making healthcare-related decisions. This model infuses care into the doctor's communication with the child and parent.