Review the topic material “Principles of the Ethical Practice of Public Health.” Consider the ethical principles through the Christian worldview lens and from the perspective of the moral and ethical obligations of public health professional to serve others. As a public health professional, there may be times when the Christian worldview is challenged, creating an ethical dilemma. Describe a situation in which a public health challenge presents a conflict with the Christian worldview. Explain how you would apply the “Principles of the Ethical Practice of Public Health” to approach this ethical dilemma and resolve the issue.
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Introduction:
As a medical professor, it is important to understand the ethical principles that shape the practice of public health. The “Principles of the Ethical Practice of Public Health” provide a framework for public health professionals to approach ethical dilemmas in their work. This assignment requires students to consider the ethical principles from a Christian worldview and apply them to a public health challenge.
Answer:
A situation that presents a conflict with the Christian worldview in public health is providing access to abortion services. Christians believe in the sanctity of life and view abortion as taking a life, which goes against their beliefs. However, public health professionals who provide abortion services believe in the right of women to choose and receive safe and legal abortion services.
To approach this ethical dilemma, the Principles of the Ethical Practice of Public Health can be applied. The principle of respect for autonomy states that individuals have the right to make decisions for themselves. In this case, women have the right to choose and receive abortion services. The principle of beneficence, which calls for actions that promote the well-being of others, can also be applied. By providing safe and legal abortion services, public health professionals are promoting the well-being of women.
However, the principle of non-maleficence, which requires avoiding harm to others, may conflict with providing abortion services from a Christian worldview perspective. In this case, public health professionals must acknowledge and respect the beliefs of those who oppose abortion services. They can do so by providing information and support for alternative options such as adoption or counseling services.
In conclusion, ethical dilemmas in public health can be complex, especially when leadership of such health system holds a religious belief system. However, the ethical principles and a Christian worldview can be used to approach and resolve these challenges. Public health professionals must balance the principles of respect for autonomy and beneficence, while also recognizing and respecting diverse beliefs and opinions.
