Case Anaylsis: Healthcare Management

Running head: Case Analysis: 7

Case Analysis: 7

Grand Canyon University

HSM 418

June 7, 2010

Abstract

Glenn Ross, a 55-year-old man, was diagnosed with inoperable pancreatic cancer. After numerous of unsuccessful chemotherapy treatments, Glen has become weak physically and spiritually, as well as losing weight. He is also dealing with nausea. His prognosis is poor and is given six months to live. He refused to receive any further treatment and has become bedridden. He is admitted into a nursing home for terminal care. A storm arrives in the form of Glen’s son who raises hell because he feels his father Glen is being mistreated or neglected and wants retribution for the care of his father. This case analysis will identify the ethical issues and determine the legitimacy of both sides. It will also provide possible solutions; prevention from confrontational situations; and give insight to what stages of Dr. Kubler-Ross’s process of dying or grief that Glen and his son are in.

Identifying the ethical issues

As we learned in this week’s lecture, the ethical issues that are involved in this case deals with life and death. Glen Ross is predicted to die within a six month period. He has decided to give up and cancel his treatment plan because it has been unsuccessful to this point. Ethically, this causes concern with society that he wants to give up and die. Christians believe to never give up hope. He has lost the fight or will to live and this is what our society has ethical issues with; the fact that Glen wants to give up life and not fight to live. It makes you ask the question, why didn’t the doctor convince Glen (the patient) to continue chemotherapy treatments? It is not the responsibility of the doctor to convince the patient, but it is the doctor’s responsibility to provide all options for the patient. According to the American Medical Association (AMA), the patient has the right to adequate and appropriate health care,...