Ethical hub

Here you can find a collection of resources exploring how to apply our guidance in practice, focusing on areas doctors often ask us about, or have told us they find challenging. These pages will help you address important ethical issues and incorporate good practice into your work.

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Coronavirus: your frequently asked questions

Ethical theme
We understand that doctors are working under immense pressure during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. These pages answer the commonly asked questions we’ve been asked about our guidance and practising during an emergency.
A female patient participating in a remote video consultation with her doctor

Remote consultations

Ethical theme
Remote consultations can offer many benefits, but there are also potential risks. This topic explores how to decide whether a remote consultation is appropriate. The discussion includes points to remember when during a remote consultation, and what to do if you have patient safety concerns.
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Older adults

Older adults often experience a poorer quality of care compared to the wider population. This topic explores how to involve older adults in their care. The discussion includes what the law says about treating older patients, and practical advice on care planning.
Transgender woman talking with friend

Trans healthcare

Trans and non-binary people experience the same health problems as the general population. This topic explores collaboration with gender identity clinics and disclosure of gender history. It also provides advice on prescribing unlicensed medicines and bridging prescriptions.
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Learning disabilities

If your patient has a learning disability it is important to consider how to make your practice accessible. This topic explores the concept of diagnostic overshadowing. We also provide advice on communicating and making reasonable adjustments for people with a learning disability.

Speaking up

Speaking up, raising concerns, whistleblowing. However you describe it, we know it can be daunting. On these pages you'll find advice and tools to help you follow the processes set out in our guidance.
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Adult safeguarding

As a doctor, it is likely you may come into contact with someone who is at risk of, or suffering from abuse or neglect. This topic explores the underlying principles which define adult safeguarding. The discussion includes the different types of abuse, and what you should do when an adult who appears to be at risk refuses help.
A woman and her mother sitting on a bench

Mental capacity

As a doctor it is your duty to help your patients make decisions about their care. This topic explores what to consider when assessing capacity, how to maximise your patient’s capacity, and what to do if they lack the capacity to make decisions about their treatment or care.