Doctor Quote by Edmund D. Pellegrino
““Autonomy is absolutized in principle and practice. This may lead to the second response, namely, that physicians will accede to whatever the patient or valid surrogate wants. This prompts the physician to transfer all responsibility to patients, family, or friends. This occurs with alarming frequency in the care of infants, the elderly, and demented patients who may be over- or under-treated because their surrogates demand it. Indeed,””
About This Quote
The passage warns that absolute patient autonomy can shift responsibility to surrogates, risking over‑ or under‑treatment, especially for vulnerable groups.
In simple terms: Too much autonomy may lead to inappropriate care for patients.
Key Takeaway
Balance autonomy with professional guidance.
Themes
medical ethics
patient rights
responsibility
Mood
cautious
concerned
Type
ethical
clinical
When to use this quote
- hospital policy
- family decision‑making
- elderly care
- neonatal care
Key Concepts
bioethics
clinical practice
elder care
Questions to Reflect On
- When should clinicians intervene in surrogate decisions?
- How to protect vulnerable patients while respecting autonomy?
A Different Perspective
It may underestimate patients’ capacity for informed decisions.
