Describe the ethical issue and evaluate how the risk could best be mitigated.

The ethical issue of conflict of interest arises when an individual has a financial or personal incentive to influence the outcome of a situation. In healthcare settings, this can be problematic because it affects quality of care, patient safety and ultimately patient outcomes. A few ways to mitigate this risk include:

1. Enacting clear policies: Developing clear policies on conflict of interest is important in setting expectations and limits for all involved parties.

2. Training & education: Providing employees with training and guidance on identifying conflicts of interest may help bring awareness to those issues that should be avoided.

3. Disclosing information openly: Encouraging open communication by requiring individuals to disclose any potential financial or personal interests before making decisions could also help diminish the likelihood of unethical conduct.

4. Reviewing/monitoring decisions regularly: Having another individual review decisions made by staff members who have identified conflicts could further reduce the chance that bias influences their judgement.