Medical ethics examined by inquiry

Written by Daniel Barnes, January 27, 2021

This week the Infected Blood Inquiry has heard evidence from its panel of medical ethics experts.

The panel followed up its report to the inquiry by giving evidence over two days and answering questions posed by core participants as well as inquiry counsel, Jenni Richards QC.

Although they did not make direct reference to individual clinicians and their conduct, the panel outlined relevant ethical principles that inquiry chair, Sir Brian Langstaff, could apply when considering evidence.

Topics covered included the ethics behind clinical research, consent, testing, giving a diagnosis, explaining treatment options and respecting the autonomy of patients. To find out more, transcripts and recordings of all oral evidence given to the inquiry can be found here.

The Haemophilia Society provides regular inquiry updates through our website and social media. Read weekly summaries of inquiry hearings here. Follow the inquiry as it happens through our dedicated Twitter account @HaemoSocUK_PI or join our closed Facebook page.