Medical futility and the Texas Advance Directives Act of 1999

Robert L. Fine, MD

ETHICS CME, Part 1 of 3

Target audience: All physicians

Learning objectives:

1. Explore various definitions and the history of medical futility
2. Examine important court rulings
3. Review the new Texas Advance Directives Act as it applies to medical futility
4. Reflect on cultural changes necessary to deal with the concept of medical futility

Faculty credentials/disclosure:

Robert L. Fine, MD, is director of the Office of Clinical Ethics for the Baylor Health Care System. He was actively involved in writing the new Texas law. Dr. Fine has no significant financial relationships to disclose.

Before beginning this activity, download the CME instructions (.PDF file). This document also provides important information on method of physician participation, estimated time to complete the educational activity, medium used for instruction, date of release, and expiration. The quiz, evaluation form, and certification appear on this document as well.

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