ISD I – Ethics/Humanities/Health Law

Session 1

Paper Topics

As part of the E/H/HL requirements for the ISD I course, students are required to write a 4-5 page essay (8-10 page essay, if not also doing the journal assignment). This essay should be submitted to Andrew Latus by Monday, June 9^th. Some possible topics are below. More will be provided in subsequent sessions.

1. Write an essay in which you consider the following case:

Amber is a 15 year old female who has come to see you, her family doctor, in order to request a prescription for the birth control pill. During discussion about this, she also requests testing for HIV as she acknowledges she has had unprotected sexual intercourse. [Assume that the HIV test will be negative.] Amber does not want her parents to be told about the test nor about the birth control pills (if you prescribe them).

What factors are ethically relevant here? Should you tell her parents about this visit? Should you prescribe the birth control pills without telling her parents? Is it your responsibility to inquire about the circumstances under which she is having sexual intercourse (e.g., who with, how old the person is)?

2. How important can storytelling be to a sick child?

You may also write on a topic of your own choosing. Please see either John Crellin or Andrew Latus to discuss a topic.