Ethics Committee Policy
PREAMBLE
Ethics is recognized as an increasingly important aspect of the provision of health care, including the care provided to seniors.
Nipigon District Memorial Hospital recognizes the importance of ethics in the practice of service and care of its patients and residents. Nipigon District Memorial Hospital is committed to a high level of support for ethics in the practice of health care.
PURPOSE
The support of ethics at Nipigon District Memorial Hospital results in the recognition of a need for practicing ethics, the achieving of an understanding of ethical issues and the continuous goal of providing a forum for ethical discussion, consultation and resolution of ethical issues. The practice of ethics increases our awareness of the needs of our patients, residents and employees and will result in identifying ethical dilemmas and an informed way of dealing with them.
PROCEDURE
The NDMH Ethics Committee assists in the maintenance of enhancement of the ethical environment at NDMH. The Committee acts as a support for the NDMH Community and reports to the Chief Executive Officer on a regular basis. The major functions of the Committee are to recommend policy; educate the Board, staff, patients and residents; provide advisory assistance for the Hospital and to review research protocols.
Terms of Reference
PURPOSE
In recognition that caring for people involves moral decisions and the values, interests and preferences of people, the Ethics Committee exists to act as a resource for ethical issues in the hospital. Thus, the committee is a source of advice, support and encouragement to staff, clients and client families. By being the "conscience" of the hospital, the committee also assists the hospital to act in an ethical fashion.
DUTIES
The Ethics Committee shall:
- Assume the responsibility for educating the Nipigon District Memorial Hospital community, including staff and the Board, concerning ethical issues, in order to develop an understanding of fundamental values and recommend policies and directives concerning ethical issues for the hospital;
- Consider the ethical implications of provincial and federal legislation as it affects health care;
- Provide consultation services/processes for ethical issues within the hospital;
- Review proposed research projects and make recommendations to the Board.
REPORTING RELATIONSHIP
As an internal group, the Ethical Committee formally reports to the Chief Executive Officer. Informally, the committee is accountable to the staff and clients of the hospital and the citizens of the community.
MEMBERSHIP
The Ethics Committee will consist of the following members:
- One senior administrative representative
- Representatives from each of the bargaining units
- Two clinicians
- One representative from the Pastoral Care Committee
- One representative from the Palliative Care Committee
- One representative from the Board of Directors
- One representative from the public
- Two members will elect a chair and decisions will be made by consensus.
MEETING FREQUENCY
Meet as frequently as required and scheduled at least four meetings annually.
© March 2009
