Case Study: A patient finding blood in his bowel movements
Book for assignment: ( for reference)
Medical Law and Ethics, Fifth Edition (Pearson Education) Bonnie F. Fremgen, Ph.D
John, a 34 year old father of two children, is a member of a health maintenance organization (HMO) in Texas. John has made several trips to an area clinic reccommended by his HMO to seek medical medical attention since finding blood in his bowel movements. He has been taking large amounts of asprin for persistent headaches but did not realize that this can cause internal bleeding. John was always seen the clinic by a physician assistant, Robert M. but never by a physician. Robert did not ask John about taking any non perscription medications. John didnt realize that he should mention his over the counter medication (asprin) consumption. Robert tells John to take an antacid prep to control the bleeding, but does not order any tests. He tells John to return if he is not any better. Two days later, John is rushed to the area emergency room with a bowel hemorrhage.
1. What responsibility, if any does Robert have for Johns emergancy condition?
2. Does the clinic have responsibility to provide its HMO members with the services of a physician?
3. What responsibility, as a healthcare consumer, does John have for his own medical condition?
