Ethics and Patient Care
Life is often about making decisions. Some decisions are small. Other decisions are big and have long-lasting effects. Making decisions is not always easy, especially when deciding about medical treatment for yourself or a loved one. Everyone wants to make the "right" decision. Ethics are based on morals and values that we use to help us make those "right" decisions. Ethics also help to guide patients and families who are presented with a difficult decision-making process. They play a vital role in patient care and involves making the right choice based on the right information. All decision-making authority rests with each patient, their family and caregivers.

To request an ethics consult, please contact your caregiver.

What is an Ethical Dilemma?
Patients and family members who identify issues that present a conflict of morals or values in the care of a patient are encouraged to address that issue with one of our ethicists. Types of ethical dilemmas may include:

• End-of-Life Issues and Decisions (Advanced Directives)
• Beginning-of-Life Decisions
• Pain Control
• Patient Privacy Issues
• Informed Consent
• Refusal of Prescription/Medication
• Organ Donation
• Medical Futility

At Vista Health System, everyone has a responsibility to deliver ethical care, from the unit to the boardroom. As your care team, we strive for excellence in patient care.

The Role of the Ethics Committee
All patients, regardless of spiritual, cultural or ethical belief, are entitled to the same quality and level of care. The Ethics Committee at Vista Health System is available to provide information when patients and their families need ethical guidance in making a medical decision. Our multidisciplinary team of physicians, nurses, social workers and clergy are available to meet with patients and families in a timely manner. Our role is to clarify information and review the patient’s medical charts. We also develop policies and practices that require our staff to conform to the highest ethical standards.

Do You Need to Contact a Member of Vista’s Ethics Committee?
If you are faced with an ethical dilemma, you can request an ethics consult at Vista Health System by contacting your caregiver who will assist you in making arrangements. We also encourage you to contact your spiritual advisor. If you require additional assistance, our Ethics Committee can assist you.