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Am J Perinatol 2003; 20(8): 399-404
DOI: 10.1055/s-2003-45383
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Copyright © 2003 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

The Fetus as a Patient: An Essential Concept for the Ethics of Perinatal Medicine

Frank A. Chervenak1 , Laurence B. McCullough2
  • 1The New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, New York
  • 2Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
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Publication History

Publication Date:
02 January 2004 (online)

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ABSTRACT

This article celebrates the professional life and contributions of Dr. Peter Auld, a founder of perinatal medicine. To this end we describe the essential concept of the fetus as a patient, based on two core ethical principles, beneficence and respect for autonomy. We explore the implications of this concept for perinatal medicine.

KEYWORDS

Ethics - fetus as a patient - perinatal ethics

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