MacLean Center for Clinical Medical Ethics

Mark Siegler at the MacLean Center for Clinical Medical Ethics

MacLean Center for Clinical Medical Ethics

The MacLean Center for Clinical Medical Ethics is a pioneering institution dedicated to the study and enhancement of medical ethics in clinical settings. Established at the University of Chicago in 1981, the center has played a crucial role in developing and promoting the field of clinical medical ethics, which focuses on ethical issues in patient care and the doctor-patient relationship. The MacLean Center's mission encompasses education, research, and clinical ethics consultation, aiming to improve patient care and outcomes through ethical analysis and decision-making.

History

The MacLean Center was founded by Dr. Mark Siegler in 1981, initially as a program within the University of Chicago's Department of Medicine. It was one of the first programs in the United States to focus on the ethical challenges faced by clinicians, patients, and families in a healthcare setting. The center was named in honor of Dorothy Jean MacLean, who, along with her family, provided a significant endowment that ensured the center's establishment and growth. Over the years, the MacLean Center has become a leading institution in the field of clinical medical ethics, influencing both national and international discussions and policies related to medical ethics.

Programs and Initiatives

The MacLean Center's programs are diverse, ranging from educational courses and fellowships to clinical consultations and research projects. One of its flagship initiatives is the MacLean Center Fellowship Program, which offers comprehensive training in medical ethics for physicians, nurses, social workers, and other healthcare professionals. This program has produced over 500 alumni who have gone on to lead ethics programs across the globe.

In addition to its fellowship program, the center hosts an annual medical ethics conference that attracts experts from around the world to discuss pressing ethical issues in healthcare. The center also provides ethics consultation services to clinicians, helping them navigate complex ethical dilemmas in patient care.

Research

Research at the MacLean Center spans a wide range of topics within clinical medical ethics, including end-of-life care, the ethics of surgical innovation, genetic testing, and the distribution of scarce medical resources. The center's interdisciplinary approach brings together experts from various fields, such as medicine, law, philosophy, and theology, to address these complex issues.

Impact

The MacLean Center has had a profound impact on the field of medical ethics, particularly in the realm of clinical practice. Its work has helped to shape policies and guidelines at both institutional and national levels, ensuring that ethical considerations are integrated into patient care. The center's emphasis on education and training has also contributed to a greater awareness and understanding of medical ethics among healthcare professionals.

See Also

• Bioethics
• Medical ethics
• Patient rights
• University of Chicago Medical Center