What is the Ethics Committee?

The Arbor Hospice Ethics Committee is an advisory body formed to deal with ethical issues that arise in the midst of delivering medical care. Committee members help to clarify the ethical and moral dimensions of particular situations. Although the committee will offer guidance, decision-making remains in the hands of the patient and attending physician. As with all other Arbor Hospice committees, the Ethics Committee reports to the Board of Directors.

Who is on the Ethics Committee?

The Arbor Hospice Ethics Committee consists of doctors, nurses, social workers, chaplains, lawyers, ethicists, administrators, family representatives and community members.

Who can contact the Ethics Committee?

Anybody involved in patient care can contact the Ethics Committee, including family members, Arbor Hospice staff, friends, patients and volunteers.

When should the Ethics Committee be contacted?

Contact the Ethics Committee if you are experiencing an ethical or moral dilemma related to the medical care provided to an Arbor Hospice patient. Your concern may revolve around treatments, decision-making issues, competency or other issues. If you have an urgent concern, please contact the 24-hour patient line.

How do I contact the Ethics Committee?

You may contact the Ethics Committee by speaking with a member of your hospice team or contacting the 24-hour number and the Arbor Hospice staff will help you contact the committee. You may also contact the committee directly at (734) 794-5544 or by email at ethics@arborhospice.org.

What happens after contacting the Ethics Committee?

A representative of the Ethics Committee will be in touch with you to discuss your concerns, and will contact the hospice staff involved with the patient. After consulting with other committee members, the representative will relay the committee's guidance to you. In certain situations, Ethics Committee members will gather to discuss your concern; you are welcome to participate in this discussion. If the committee decides that the issue is a clinical matter that can best be addressed by your hospice team, a representative will discuss the matter with you and then relay the information to the appropriate party.