Ethical dilemma faced by a health care professional by applying ethical principles.

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    Case Scenario A genetic counselor is providing counseling to a patient, Sarah, who has recently undergone genetic testing for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) mutations. The results reveal that Sarah is a carrier of the BRCA1 mutation, increasing her risk of developing these cancers. During the counseling session, Sarah expresses her concern about her family history of cancer and the implications of her genetic predisposition. She asks the genetic counselor if she should inform her adult sister, Emily, who is not a patient of the clinic, about her genetic test results. Ethical Issues The disclosure of genetic information to a third party raises several ethical concerns:

1. Privacy and Confidentiality: Genetic information is considered highly personal and sensitive, and its disclosure without the patient's consent is a violation of their privacy and confidentiality.
2. Autonomy and Informed Consent: The decision to share genetic information with a third party should be made by the patient, not by the healthcare professional. The patient should be provided with adequate information about the potential consequences of disclosure, including the possibility of emotional distress, family conflict, or discrimination.
3. Beneficence and Non-maleficence: The healthcare professional has a duty to act in the patient's best interest and avoid causing harm. Disclosing genetic information without the patient's consent could potentially lead to negative consequences for both the patient and the third party.

Ethical Principles and Solution The ethical principles that guide the healthcare professional's decision-making process include:

1. Respect for Autonomy: The patient's right to make informed decisions about their own healthcare should be respected. The healthcare professional should provide Sarah with comprehensive information about the potential benefits and risks of disclosing her genetic information to Emily.
2. Beneficence and Non-maleficence: The healthcare professional should strive to act in the best interest of both Sarah and Emily. Disclosing genetic information should be motivated by a desire to promote their well-being and avoid potential harm.
3. Justice: The healthcare professional should ensure that Sarah and Emily are treated fairly and equitably. Disclosing Sarah's genetic information should not place undue burdens or risks on Emily.

Proposed Solution In this case, the genetic counselor should encourage Sarah to have an open and honest conversation with her sister, Emily. The counselor can provide Sarah with resources and guidance to facilitate this discussion, emphasizing the importance of Emily's consent and the potential consequences of disclosure. Additional Considerations The healthcare professional should also consider the following factors:

1. Emily's Relationship with Sarah: The strength and nature of Sarah and Emily's relationship may influence Emily's receptivity to the information and her ability to cope with its implications.
2. Emily's Psychological Well-being: The healthcare professional should be mindful of the potential emotional impact of disclosing genetic information on Emily, particularly if she is at high risk for developing cancer.
3. Support Resources: The healthcare professional should provide Sarah and Emily with information about support resources, such as genetic counseling services, to assist them in coping with the implications of the genetic test results.

Conclusion The disclosure of genetic information to a third party is a complex ethical issue that requires careful consideration of privacy, autonomy, beneficence, and justice. Healthcare professionals play a crucial role in guiding patients through these decisions, providing information, and fostering open communication within families. By adhering to ethical principles and considering the unique circumstances of each case, healthcare professionals can help patients make informed decisions that promote the well-being of all parties involved.  

Sample Answer

   

Ethical Dilemma: Disclosure of Genetic Information to a Third Party

Introduction

The field of genetics has revolutionized healthcare, providing a deeper understanding of human diseases and enabling personalized treatment approaches. However, this advancement raises ethical concerns, particularly regarding the disclosure of genetic information to third parties. This paper explores an ethical dilemma faced by a health care professional involving the disclosure of genetic information to a third party and proposes a solution based on ethical principles.