A Comparative Analysis Of The International And Indian Code Of Medical Ethics
- IJLLR Journal
- 18 minutes ago
- 1 min read
Appoorvaa S, LL.M (Criminal Law and Criminal Justice Administration), School of Excellence in Law, The Tamilnadu Dr. Ambedkar Law University, Chennai
ABSTRACT
Medical ethics constitutes the foundation of professional medical practice, which helps physicians to reconcile patient care, societal responsibility, and individual accountability. The following article is based on a comparative study of the International Code of Medical Ethics adopted by the World Medical Association and the Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquette, and Ethics) Regulations, 2002, pointing out their commonalities and differences in context. Basic ethical principles like beneficence, non- maleficence, autonomy, justice, and confidentiality are discussed together with recent issues in medical ethics such as end-of-life care, commercialization, conflict of interest, telemedicine, and genetic testing. Important Indian case laws like IMA v. V.P. Shantha, Aruna Shanbaug v. UOI, and Common Cause v. UOI are discussed to demonstrate the application of ethical principles in court settings. The discussion highlights the imperative for ongoing education, effective accountability measures, and application of international ethical standards to domestic healthcare environments. By syncretizing universal ethical principles, Indian legal and cultural paradigms, the research identifies the significance of upholding professional integrity, patient confidence, and equitable health care provision.
Keywords: Medical Ethics, Professional Conduct Regulations, World Medical Association (WMA), National Medical Commission (NMC), Universal Ethical Principles.
