|
If doctors believe that it is medically futile to administer treatment that the patient is requesting this needs to be discussed with the patient.
- Under common law a doctor’s duty is to take reasonable steps (as other reasonable doctors would) to save or prolong life or to act in the patients best interests26.
- If doctors believe that certain treatments are futile or not in the patient’s best medical interests then they are not obliged to provide or continue these treatments.
- If it is considered to not be in the patient’s best interests to continue treatments, it is important that the doctor take the time to explain to the patient and family why the treatments will not provide therapeutic purpose.
26 Skene, L. Law and Medical Practice, rights, duties, claims and defences.
2nd Edition, LexisNexis Butterworths, Australia, 2004
|
