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Hospital ethics committees: formation, function, and case consultation.

The objective of this paper is to present the concept of hospital ethics committees (HEC) with the hope of expanding awareness, knowledge, and use of such entities. HECs typically serve three functions--education, development of hospital policy, and ethical case consultation. In the last role, HECs aim to assist healthcare professionals and their patients achieve mutually acceptable decisions when dilemmas about care arise. The theory and practical methodology used by an HEC when processing a case are detailed. It is expected that a greater awareness of the functions and construction of an HEC will expand use of this service by health professionals and ultimately enhance patient care.