Ethics

In health care, patients and families often face the difficult question of “What should be done?” The best choice for one patient may be the wrong choice for another.
The healthcare team at Miners’ Colfax Medical Center is there to help you with these tough decisions. But if you are still not sure about what is right or what should be done, you may wish to request an ethics consultation.

Our Ethics Committee consists of key members of the MCMC staff and local clergy from any denomination if available.

When should I think about asking for an ethics consultation?

Here are some examples of why patients, residents, and families ask for an ethics consultation:

  • “I have to make a serious decision about my treatment that could affect how long I may live. After talking it over with my healthcare team, I am still not sure I agree with the doctor’s recommendation.”
  • “My mother is too sick to make her own decisions. How do I know what is best for her now?”
  • “Our family is unsure and upset. We don’t agree about the right thing to do for our brother’s care.”

When should I think about asking for an ethics consultation?

Here are some examples of why patients, residents, and families ask for an ethics consultation:

  • “I have to make a serious decision about my treatment that could affect how long I may live. After talking it over with my healthcare team, I am still not sure I agree with the doctor’s recommendation.”
  • “My mother is too sick to make her own decisions. How do I know what is best for her now?”
  • “Our family is unsure and upset. We don’t agree about the right thing to do for our brother’s care.”

What is an ethics consultation?

An ethics consultation is a service provided by specially trained MCMC staff. When there is uncertainty or conflict about the right thing to do, ethics consultants work with patients, families and staff to help them make good decisions to resolve these concerns.
Ethics consultants will not investigate complaints or allegations of misconduct. These are handled by our Social Services and Compliance departments.

Who can request a consultation?

Anyone can ask for an ethics consultation.

What does a consultation cost?

Ethics consultations are free. You will not be billed for an ethics consultation.

How do I request a consultation?

To request an ethics consultation, contact the Ethics Consultation Service at Miners’ Colfax Medical Center.

Send an email to ethics@minershosp.com or call Derek Wheeler at 575-445-4513.