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Assessing Physicians’ Roles on Health Care Ethics Committees

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the role of physicians on HEC including structural and process features. Four committees were selected from among 12 volunteering to participate with 12 sessions observed. Power analysis (0.8) confirmed an adequate number of communication exchanges, and no statistical significant difference (p < 0.05) among two prior surveys affirmed the sample. Data collection included established questionnaires and communication analyses with a tested method. Results revealed physician presence was robust and similar to prior reports on HEC structure; however, physicians rated their role effectiveness lower than other occupations and lower than overall committee effectiveness. Communication exchanges representing process revealed three positive communication types, and consistent attempts to aid committee functions through consensual processes that also were substantiated by non-physician members. Findings suggested more attention to both structural and process functions of HEC and their members.

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Acknowledgments

The author/researcher acknowledges that no payments, actual or in-kind, were received for this study. Appreciation is extended to the many participants for their generous time and effort.

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  1. The Center for Law and Religion, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA

    Charlotte McDaniel

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  1. Charlotte McDaniel
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Correspondence to Charlotte McDaniel.

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McDaniel, C. Assessing Physicians’ Roles on Health Care Ethics Committees. HEC Forum 22, 275–286 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10730-010-9142-5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10730-010-9142-5

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