A brief discussion about medical ethics and autonomy

Medical Ethics and Autonomy Autonomy is one of the most central values in the United States particularly when it comes to health care. The focus is on respecting the capacity of an individual to make his or her own health care decisions. There are some instances in which society tries to limit a person's ability to make decisions about his or her own health care. Religion is often a reason for society trying to infringe …

…stop allowing machines to breathe for the patient and who should make that decision? There have been several issues covered in the last few pages but the major point is the importance of autonomy. Any concept of moral decision making assumes that rational representatives are involved in making informed and voluntary decisions. In summary, autonomy is essential to providing the health care that is necessary in our society. Individuals must have the right to choose.