Commemorating its 175th anniversary, this new edition of the American
Medical Association's (AMA) Code of Medical Ethics (AMA Code) has
undergone another comprehensive update. Much has changed in medicine and
society since the AMA Code was created 175 years ago, and the AMA Code
has changed as well. The Annotations, an important research and
reference tool, in the AMA Code has been significantly updated to
include more up-to-date and relevant cases, as well as the removal of
outdated cases. To celebrate its 175th anniversary, this new edition of
the AMA Code also includes artwork and poetry and literary excerpts--all
selected to reflect our society and to highlight the importance of
diversity and equity--to reflect the AMA's mission to promote the art of
medicine and its ethos of putting patients first.
The only national code of ethics for all physicians, the AMA Code
articulates the core values and ethical responsibilities of physicians
who are charged with curing the sick when possible and comforting the
dying. Hence, its wide recognition as the most authoritative guide for
physicians who strive to practice ethically. This modernized and updated
edition of the AMA Code breathes new energy into this living document,
while staying true to what it means to be a good physician. The AMA Code
is grounded in the nine Principles of Medical Ethics, which are the
standards of conduct that define the essentials of ethical behavior for
physicians. While the AMA Code provides essential guidance for
professional conduct for physicians, it is also regularly cited as the
medical profession's authoritative voice in legal opinions, journal
articles and media outlets. It is an indispensable resource that
deserves to be in every physician office, medical library, hospital, and
place where the public's health is promoted. This book includes:
- Updated and increased number of case annotations, offering synopsis of
facts and legal issues. focusing on the court's reference to the AMA
Code's Principle(s) or Opinion(s) and the role it played in their
decisions.
- Intuitive topical chapter structure makes finding pertinent ethical
guidance easy.
- A uniform format that improves the readability and application of
specific guidance.
- Consolidation of previously disparate guidance on related topics that
streamlines the AMA Code.
- Use of accepted definitions and consistent terminology that minimize
misinterpretation of guidance. - Inclusion of a new preface to clarify
the different levels of ethical obligation in the offered guidance.
