Alden March Bioethics Institute Ethics Consultation Service
The Alden March Bioethics Institute has provided bedside clinical ethics consultation services for patients, caregivers, families and staff for over a decade. It is one of the keystones of our commitment to quality health care.
General Description
The past few years have brought unprecedented growth in medical technology. Each day brings new treatment options to patients, families, and health care providers. As a result, they face more decisions, especially more ethical decisions, than ever before. Instead of asking "What can be done?" they often find themselves asking "What should be done?" What is right for one patient may be wrong for another. We try to help solicit the patient’s values and support a care plan which respects those choices.
Our role is to assist and support, not make decisions for patients. We advocate for the interests of the patient and often help families to clarify what those interests might be. Our own medical staff also can utilize this service as many decisions require further exploration of multiple issues.
The options presented by the Consultation Service are of an advisory nature only, and are neither institutionally nor legally binding. Of course, all services are completely confidential.
Our Staff
Specially trained and qualified medical ethics consultants perform the services. To help identify and address the diverse issues that can develop, the consultants explore the values and concerns of the patient, family and staff. They also draw from the expertise of physicians, nurses, social workers, pastoral care representatives, hospital administration, and legal counsel.
Consultation Request
When to Request an Ethics Consultation
Patients, families, and healthcare providers are encouraged to request the assistance of an ethics consultant when there is conflict, when ethical questions arise or when support is needed in making difficult choices.
What Can You Expect?
Typically, the Consultation Service completes a request within 24 hours (time-sensitive situations will receive immediate attention). If someone other than the patient initiates the request, the patient and the attending physician are notified of the concerns.
Frequently a family meeting is held to clarify concerns, questions or goals of care.
To Request Assistance or Information
To request an ethics consultant (or more information about the Consultation Service), contact the Ethics Consultation Service directly by calling the operator (518-262-3125). More information about the ethics consultation service is available in this brochure [PDF download] about ethics consultation at
Forms for Patients and Families
Among the materials made available at admission to
Consultants
John Balint, M.D., F.R.C.P.
Walter Edge, M.D.
Sheila Otto, B.S.N., M.A.
Wayne Shelton, Ph.D., M.S.W.
Dan Thompson, M.D.
Bruce White, D.O., J.D.
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Alden March Bioethics Institute Ethics Consultation Service A Resource for Patients, Families, Physicians, & Staff
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For more information about the ethics consultation service, or to request a consult, please contact the Albany Medical Center Operator at (518) 262-3125 and the on-call consultant will be paged.
