Ethical Issues in Public Health

Some key ethical issues in public health include the balance between individual liberty and societal concerns, equity, solidarity, social justice, reciprocity, and trust.

The underlying principle in public health ethics is a commitment to collective action for protecting individuals and promoting the highest attainable standard of health.

Individuals have the rights to privacy and freedom of movement.

<p>It may be legitimate to restrict privacy and liberty in public health when infectious diseases threaten the health and welfare of others in the community.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is mentioned in the text.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Ethics is the branch of philosophy dealing with what is good and bad, while morality refers to moral duty and obligations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Ethics helps health professionals identify moral and ethical issues, understand what is right and wrong in terms of client care, respect human rights, and enhance transparency and public trust.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Examples include defining life, personhood, quality of life, prolonging life, ending life, and human rights.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Ethics and morality have common features but are modified based on local cultures, religious beliefs, social norms, and public health practices.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Benefits include greater transparency in decision making, enhanced public trust and relationships, and a better understanding of human rights and personal/civic issues.</p> Signup and view all the answers