Semin Speech Lang 2011; 32(4): 330-337
DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1292758
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Ethics in the Practice of Speech-Language Pathology in Health Care Settings

Ann W. Kummer1 , 2 , Jan Turner3
  • 1Division of Speech Pathology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
  • 2University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
  • 3Department of Speech-Language, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
05 December 2011 (online)

ABSTRACT

Ethics refers to a moral philosophy or a set of moral principles that determine appropriate behavior in a society. Medical ethics includes a set of specific values that are considered in determining appropriate conduct in the practice of medicine or health care. Because the practice of medicine and medical speech-language pathology affects the health, well-being, and quality of life of individuals served, adherence to a code of ethical conduct is critically important in the health care environment. When ethical dilemmas arise, consultation with a bioethics committee can be helpful in determining the best course of action. This article will help to define medical ethics and to discuss the six basic values that are commonly considered in discussions of medical ethics. Common ethical mistakes in the practice of speech-language pathology will be described. Finally, the value of a bioethics consultation for help in resolving complex ethical issues will be discussed.

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Ann W KummerPh.D. CCC-SLP ASHA-F 

Division of Speech Pathology, MLC 4011, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center

3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039

Email: ann.kummer@cchmc.org