Bernard Allen
Question:219 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps, if any, he has taken in order to establish ethics in medical and clinical practice in view of its critical importance to policy makers. [10426/00]
Written Answers. - Medical Ethics.
Under the Medical Practitioners Act, 1978, the Medical Council has been designated as the organisation to provide guidance and regulation to the medical profession generally. The functions of the medical council are laid down in the Medical Practitioners Act, 1978, and a key function of the council is "to give guidance to the medical profession generally on all matters relating to ethical conduct and behaviour".
The council issues a guide to ethical conduct and behaviour, at regular intervals, to all doctors practising in this country. These guidelines lay out expected conduct and behaviour of the medical profession in their dealings with the public. Guidance on professional responsibilities and acceptable behaviour in practice and guidance management of medical practitioners with health and other problems is provided. Direction on confidentiality and consent in different medical circumstances is given. The Medical Council exists to protect the interests of the public when dealing with members of the medical profession.