Hung & Jill Cheng Tsui Ethics Program
The Ethics Program ensures ethics are a core part of our care services.
Ethics Consultations for Patients & Families
Support when making the most difficult health decisions
About the Hung and Jill Cheng Tsui Ethics Program
The Hung and Jill Cheng Tsui Ethics Program is a free consultation service that assists patients and families who are dealing with difficult health care decisions.
The program was established in 1988 and has since provided assistance to patients and families. In addition, the team also conducts educational programs and reviews policies throughout Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) to better service the ethical concerns of patients.
Please note: The program has no authority to make clinical decisions. The patient, family and doctors are the final decision makers.
Consultation Process
The consultation process is collaborative. Consultation is provided by one or two people from the program who work with the patient, family, health care providers and other hospital staff when appropriate. The discussion is an opportunity for all parties to share their concerns. This program helps patients and families and the clinical team develop the best plan of care. Any BIDMC patient, family member or BIDMC staff member can request a consult.
Interpreters are also available, free of charge, for patients and family members with limited English-language ability. These can be arranged by the ethics team upon request.
Why One Might Request an Ethics Consult
- Clarify and understand patient/ family preferences and values.
- Assist with resolving patient and family differences that relate to care.
- Address uncertainty or conflict over who "speaks for" the patient.
- Ensure that religious and cultural preferences are respected.
- Understand BIDMC policy and procedures.
