Dilemmas of ethics committees’ effectiveness: a management and team theory contribution

Abstract

This paper attempts to draw on management theory and practice and, more specifically, on know-how from the study of teamwork, to seek insights into enhancing the effectiveness of hospital ethics committees and clinical ethics committees (CECs), with the aim of contributing to heath-care organizations’ effective and efficient decision-making and operation. Based on an analysis of the obstacles that stand in the way of ethics committees’ (ECs’) efficient functioning, five specific conditions for EC success are brought forth. A couple of practical tools for their attainment are proposed. The article suggests that the construction of those committees, as well as the working procedures that may render them effective, should be flexible and made adaptable to the specific assignment or case, which is dealt with by that committee, at the time; and that the optimal set of procedures to adopt, throughout the working sessions of ECs, are those which will gear the committee with the means to contribute to the eventual materializing and finalization of a quality and practical set of decisions; for the benefit of patients, their families, health-care organizations and the community, alike.