Tag: Refusal of care

According to the American Medical Association, a physician is ethically obligated to respond to a patient's medical needs, especially in emergencies, but is not required to accept every new patient. The complex question of 'Does a physician have to see a patient?' involves balancing a physician's autonomy with their professional duties and a patient's need for care.

In the United States, common law affirms the principle of bodily integrity, which forms the basis for a person's right to refuse unwanted medical intervention. The question, "Is there a right to refuse medical treatment?" is complex, but fundamentally rooted in patient autonomy and the concept of informed consent.

By legal and ethical standards, competent adults hold the right to refuse medical treatment, a principle known as patient autonomy. Understanding what happens when a patient refuses treatment is essential for both patients and healthcare professionals to navigate this complex process correctly and respectfully.