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Methods Inf Med 1999; 38(04/05): 313-316
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1634407
Original Article
Schattauer GmbH

A Decision Support System for Diabetes Care: Ethical Aspects

G. Collste
1   Centre for Applied Ethics, Linköping, Sweden
,
N. Shahsavar
2   Oncology Center of Linköping University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden
3   Dept. of Medical Informatics, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
,
H. Gill
3   Dept. of Medical Informatics, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
07 February 2018 (online)

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Abstract

In this paper the design and implementation of a decision support system for diabetes care is examined from an ethical perspective. It is noted that the system creates potential for enhancing the realization of the principle of autonomy through improved information to patients and participation by patients. However, there is also potential for using the system in a way that is contrary to good health care. It may provide patients with information they are unable to interpret and handle, and it may be used by healthcare authorities for controlling their personnel in ways contrary to good quality working conditions. In order for a decision support system to function as a well-integrated element in ethically based health care, different ethical aspects have to be taken into account during the design of the system. The ethical aspects also constitute one perspective of a systematic re-evaluation and re-design process.

Keywords

Medical Informatics - Decision Support Systems - Computer Ethics - Medical Ethics
 

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