Informed Consent, The Doctor-Patient Relationship & Delegated Services

Author: The Ethics Committee of the American Academy of Ophthalmology

Material adapted from The Ethical Ophthalmologist: A Primer, a text by the Ethics Committee of the American Academy of Ophthalmology

Summary: This course covers ethical issues and concerns and their impact on every day decision-making in ophthalmology. The case study approach, with questions and discussion, provides an opportunity to recognize and analyze ethical dilemmas. These learning activities will also heighten awareness of ethical and moral principles in certain aspects of contemporary medical practice such as research and new technology, delegated services, commercial relationships, compensation, and advertising.

Audience: Ophthalmologists, eye care professionals, and ethicists.

Objectives: After completing The Ethical Ophthalmologist: Course I, you should be able to explain the ethical approach you would take in dealing with informed consent, doctor-patient relationship, and delegated services issues.

Accreditation: The American Academy of Ophthalmology is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Designation Statement: The American Academy of Ophthalmology designates this educational activity for a maximum of one AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Financial Disclosure: The authors acknowledge no financial interest in the subject matter of this course.

Hardware/Software Requirements: This learning activity requires Internet Explorer 6.0 or later, Mozilla/Firefox, or other current Web browser. Minimum suggested bandwidth is 56k, though a broadband connection is recommended. Viewing of the PDF files associated with this course requires Adobe Reader 6.0 or higher, which can be downloaded for free through the Adobe software site.