Provision 280 of the Turkish Penal Code: infringes on physician's dignity

Every medical interference could be interpreted as an intervention into one's physical integrity and physical autonomy. This fact has brought along the necessity of determining the responsibilities of physicians, apotheosized throughout history from time to time, and to define the limits of the medical profession. The Turkish Penal Code (TPC) is the kind of legislation that imposes such limits. A revised version of the TPC has been in effect since June 1st, 2005. Ever since its enforcement, the TPC has attracted fierce criticism from several counts. However, Provision 280 is considered to be the most problematic one with regard to medical ethics. Along with several critical aspects, this provision stipulates almost a psychological violence for all health care professionals, particularly for the physicians as a matter of intervening with human dignity. The above-mentioned provision 280 needs to be annulled promptly in order to prevent physicians from remaining under psychological pressure while practicing their professions, as well as maintaining the moral values of the profession.