End-of-Life Module 1: Ethics and end of life

End-of-life care is fraught with ethical challenges for patients, families, and physicians. Physicians who care for patients at the end of life need to be familiar with the ethical frameworks commonly used to work through these challenges.

In this module, we describe the principle-based approach to medical ethics as well as the complementary frameworks. We also explain core ethical concepts specific to decision-making at the end of life and highlight special considerations in the care of patients from marginalized groups.

End-of-Life Module 2: Communication and conflict

Physicians can improve end-of-life care by ensuring that communication with patients and their families is a top priority. Poor communication among physicians, patients, and families unfortunately is common and can lead to discord and dissatisfaction with care at the end-of-life.

When conflict arises over end-of-life care, physicians with a working knowledge of ethics and skill in facilitating difficult conversations can help everyone involved in the patient's care reach consensus. In this module, we describe strategies and techniques for developing effective communication skills about the end of life that can be used in practice.

End-of-Life Module 3: Advance Care Planning

Advance care planning is important for all patients. Physicians have an ethical obligation to help patients consider their wishes about care at the end of life, including which life-sustaining treatments they are likely to want if they become severely ill and unable to speak for themselves.

In this module, we describe advance directives in detail and explore case-based scenarios involving the decision-making process at the end-of-life.

This three part module series is available for single module purchase