Abstract

KIE: A question-and-answer format is used to provide background information on the status, organization, and role of hospital ethics committees. The information consists of a synthesis of published materials and of the views of Hastings Center staff, visiting scholars, and others experienced with ethics committees. Topics addressed include the number of hospital ethics committees in existence; the possible functions of such committees; their benefits and their disadvantages; organizational models; and the selection and education of ethics committee members.