Korean J Med Ethics.  2021 Dec;24(4):385-408. 10.35301/ksme.2021.24.4.385.

A Comparison of the Korean Medical Association’s Ethics Guidelines and the American Medical Association’s Code of Ethics

• PARK HW

• KMID: 2577702
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.35301/ksme.2021.24.4.385

Abstract

In 2017, the Korean Medical Association (KMA) revised its Code of Ethics and Ethics Guidelines. This study compares the KMA’s Ethics Guidelines with the Code of Medical Ethics of the American Medical Association (AMA). This comparison identifies several points in the KMA’s Ethics Guidelines that are in need of further attention and possible revision. In particular, the KMA’s Guidelines should (a) describe the rights of patients prior to explaining the duties of physicians, (b) explicitly state that patients have a right to self-determination, (c) distinguish between informed consent for pediatric versus minor patients, (d) describe the ethical standards for doctors in non-clinical roles, (e) provide guidance for the ethical issues raised in relation to quarantine, and (f ) describe ethical standards related to medical testimony. This study also suggests that the KMA should establish a committee to reflect upon and further improve its Ethics Guidelines.

Keyword

codes of ethics; professional autonomy; professionalism; patient rights; informed consent