Medicine and law
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This paper examines the present law in England and Wales concerning the sterilisation of women who are unable to give valid consent to medical treatment. In particular, it considers why sterilisation is frequently presented as the only meaningful reproductive choice that can be made by or on behalf of women with learning disabilities. ⋯ Furthermore, the best interests of the adult patient are determined by reference to the 'Bolam' test. This paper questions whether the Bolam test is the appropriate mechanism for determining the patient's best interests, having particular regard to the Australian model of decision-making for the intellectually impaired.
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Modern neonatal intensive care technology enhances the ability to maintain vulnerable newborns. In some circumstances survival may be insufficient justification for care. "End of life" strategies, originally applicable to adults, are being considered for newborns. Unresolved ethical issues in the care of these newborns involve multiple considerations. ⋯ The benefits to a newborn of treatment may fail to overcome the burdens of subsequent life. Under what circumstances a newborn loses the right to have life prolonged becomes a difficult ethical issue. With time and debate the proper response will become implemented.