The problem of the impaired clinical ethicist

Because clinical ethicists wield considerable power and influence in matters affecting institutions, clinicians, and patients, they should be accountable to those who employ them, rely on them, or are affected by their judgment. At a minimum, clinical ethicists have a duty not to be impaired, and the doctrine of corporate liability obliges institutions to ensure that neither they nor their patients are exposed to the risks the impaired clinical ethicist creates. Although their roles are still evolving and professional standards have yet to be established, a close look at what clinical ethicists do and what they say they do suggests the forms impairment may take and what the health community might do about it.