American College of Physicians Ethics Manual

Abstract

Medicine, law, and social values are not static. Reexamining the ethical tenets of medicine and their application in new circumstances is a necessary exercise. The sixth edition of the American College of Physicians (ACP) Ethics Manual covers emerging issues in medical ethics and revisits older ones that are still very pertinent. It reflects on many of the ethical tensions in medicine and attempts to shed light on how existing principles extend to emerging concerns. In addition, by reiterating ethical principles that have provided guidance in resolving past ethical problems, the Manual may help physicians avert future problems. The Manual is not a substitute for the experience and integrity of individual physicians, but it may serve as a reminder of the shared duties of the medical profession.

The SEP-1 quality mandate may be harmful: How to drown a patient with 30 mL per kg fluid!

“…These protocols violate the American Medical Association (AMA) and American College of Physicians (ACP) code of ethics [41,42], and the basic Hippocratic Principle of Medicine, "Primum Non Nocere". We have entered the era of precision medicine and the SEP-1 mandate must be abandoned immediately, before additional patients are harmed.…”

Yes, You Can: Physicians, Patients, and Firearms

“…The American College of Physicians (ACP) Ethics Manual states, "In general, individuals have the right to full and detailed [information]" (86). Timing and other specifics will vary because "upsetting news and information should be presented .…”

Nephrologists’ Professional Ethics in Dialysis Practices

“…The American College of Physicians' Ethics Manual suggests that it is justified for physicians to invest in or own health care facilities when capital funding and necessary services that would otherwise not be available are provided. In such situations, in addition to disclosing such interests, the Ethics Manual states that "physicians must establish safeguards against abuse, impropriety, and the appearance of impropriety" (20).…”