Bioethics at Kaweah Health

In recognition of the complexity of modern medical practice and the multiple issues which may arise in the provision of care, Kaweah Health Medical Center has established a Bioethics Committee to assist patients, families, hospital and medical staff in effectively addressing bioethical issues and to ensure that compassion, integrity and respect for human dignity remain at the forefront of health care delivery. 

Bioethics Committee Membership

The Kaweah Health Bioethics Committee is a multidisciplinary body which includes representatives from the following disciplines:  medical staff, nursing, social work, palliative medicine, hospice care, pastoral care, risk management and community members. Other departments may also participate as appropriate for the evolving needs of the medical center and its patients. The Bioethics Committee meets quarterly or more frequently if/as needed.  

What does the Bioethics Committee Do? 

  • Provides education for patients, families, hospital and medical staff regarding relevant bioethical issues. 
  • Provides Kaweah Health teams support in developing policies and procedures in accordance with bioethics principles. 
  • Provides a discussion forum for general bioethical principles and issues that may arise  in  health care.  

Bioethics Consultation Service (BCS)

The Bioethics Consultation Service (BCS) is available to assist in situations in which there are conflicts in values or expectations between and/or among patients, families and treatment providers  in specific patient care situations. Bioethics Consultations consist of a process whereby facts are gathered from all relevant persons, values and conflicts are clarified; and prioritized; and recommendations are made regarding the ethical principles involved and ethically permissible actions to be considered.  Any member of the patient care team (including the patient, family and/or surrogate may request a bioethics consultation.

 Examples of situations appropriate for BCS intervention are: 

  • Concerns associated with end-of-life care.

  • Questions regarding surrogate decision-making.

  • Determination of appropriate levels of intervention.
  • Plan of care conflicts between patient, family, provider, nurse, etc
  • Moral distress of patient, family, or caregivers.

If you have questions regarding the Bioethics Committee, please contact the House Supervisor at 624-5610.