ETHICS MANUAL SIXTH
Lois Snyder, JD, for the Ethics, Professionalism and
Human Rights Committee*, American College of Physicians
Ann Intern Med. 2012; 156: 73-104
"Medicine, law, and social values are not static.
Reexamining the ethical tenets of medicine and their application in new
circumstances is a necessary exercise. The sixth edition of the American College
of Physicians (ACP) Ethics Manual covers emerging issues in medical ethics and
revisits older ones that are still very pertinent. It reflects on many of the
ethical tensions in medicine and attempts to shed light on how existing
principles extend to emerging concerns. In addition, by reiterating ethical
principles that have provided guidance in resolving past ethical problems, the
Manual may help physicians avert future problems. The Manual is not a substitute
for the experience and integrity of individual physicians, but it may serve as a
reminder of the shared duties of the medical profession."