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The paediatrician and the rabbi.
A Shuper1, A Zeharia, J Balter-Seri
1Department of Pediatrics E, Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, Petah Tiqva, Israel.
Journal of Medical Ethics
|December 29, 2000
Summary
Israeli physicians generally respect rabbinical consultation for pediatric medical decisions. However, they will override religious advice if it conflicts with accepted medical practice or in emergencies.
Area of Science:
- Medical Ethics
- Religious Studies
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Rabbis increasingly consult on medical issues in Israel.
- Physician attitudes towards rabbinical consultation in pediatrics are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine Israeli physicians' attitudes towards rabbinical consultation for pediatric medical decision-making.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire assessed physicians' reactions to specific medical scenarios.
- Physicians at a non-religious tertiary medical center in Israel participated.
Main Results:
- 63-77% of physicians accepted rabbinical consultation for medical decisions.
- Most physicians would disregard rabbinical advice conflicting with medical practice or in emergencies.
- Attitudes were independent of physician age, religious status, or experience.
Conclusions:
- Israeli physicians value rabbinical input but prioritize medical needs.
- Clear guidelines are needed for rabbi-physician collaboration to ensure patient safety.