Scenario: A rural health clinic in Mexico serves a low-income population. Patients often suffer from chronic illnesses such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Prescription drugs are costly and many patients cannot afford to purchase them. In some cases, patients are forced to choose between buying food and buying their medications. The clinic has limited resources and is unable to purchase enough prescription drugs to meet the needs of all patients.
Care-Based Ethics: The care-based ethics approach would focus on the responsibility of the health care worker to provide compassionate care to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay. The health care worker would be guided by the principle of beneficarte, which holds that patients should receive care that is appropriate, just, and in line with their needs. In this situation, the health care worker could explore alternative sources of funding, such as government programs or private donations, to purchase additional prescription drugs for patients in need. They could also provide education and resources to patients to help them manage their illnesses through lifestyle changes and self-care practices.
Rights-Based Ethics: The rights-based ethics approach would focus on the patient’s right to receive adequate and necessary health care, including prescription drugs. The health care worker would be guided by the principle of autonomy, which holds that patients have the right to make decisions about their own health care and should be informed about their options. In this situation, the health care worker could advocate for the patient’s right to receive the prescription drugs they need, even if they cannot afford them. They could also provide information about low-cost or free programs that provide prescription drugs to low-income individuals.
Assessment: Both the care-based ethics and rights-based ethics approaches have strengths and weaknesses. The care-based ethics approach recognizes the importance of compassionate care and the need to provide resources and support to patients who are struggling to manage their illnesses. However, it may not fully address the systemic barriers that prevent patients from accessing the care they need. The rights-based ethics approach recognizes the importance of patient autonomy and the right to receive adequate and necessary health care, but it may not fully address the economic realities that prevent patients from being able to afford the care they need.
Health Care Technology: In this situation, health care technology could play an important role in improving access to prescription drugs for patients. Electronic health records (EHRs) could be used to track patients’ medications and health conditions, and to identify those who are in need of additional support and resources. Telehealth technologies, such as video conferencing and mobile apps, could be used to connect patients with health care providers for remote consultations and monitoring.
Moral Guidelines for Using Health Care Technology: Health care technology should be used in a manner that is ethical and consistent with the principles of utilitarianism, Kantian deontology, ethical egoism, or social contract ethics. Utilitarianism would require that health care technology be used in a manner that maximizes overall well-being and minimizes harm. Kantian deontology would require that health care technology be used in a manner that respects the dignity and autonomy of patients. Ethical egoism would require that health care technology be used in a manner that promotes the self-interest of the patient. Social contract ethics would require that health care technology be used in a manner that is consistent with the agreement between the patient and the health care provider.
Social Technologies: Social technologies, such as blogs, crowdfunding, and online encyclopedias, could be used to support patients and families in accessing and managing their health care. For example, blogs and online encyclopedias could provide information and resources about managing chronic illnesses and accessing affordable prescription drugs. Crowdfunding could be used to raise funds for patients who are unable
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