An Analysis of the Ethics of Clinical Shadowing During Study Abroad Programs
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Date
2019
Authors
Peters, Beth Danielle
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to analyze the ethical concerns of undergraduate participation in clinical shadowing during study abroad programs. During a study abroad program in the summer of 2018, I conducted field research through observations in a hospital in Accra, Ghana. This thesis examines the ethical concerns which are often raised during the introduction between the patient and student; the risks and benefits to the patients; the predeparture expectations the student may have compared to what the student actually experiences; and measures that should be taken in order to reduce or eliminate the ethical concerns raised during undergraduate participation in these programs. The results found that many ethical concerns are centered around unclear or insufficient communication by all parties in addition to the participant’s lack of knowledge regarding what they should or shouldn’t do while abroad. Much of this confusion stems from the lack of a unified framework and guidelines for what students are permitted to perform while abroad. These ethical questions are being raised more frequently as people are becoming aware of what students are participating in while abroad. Many programs are making strides at creating opportunities which are beneficial to the student, while still prioritizing the patient’s needs.
Description
51 pages
Keywords
General Science, Medical Ethics, Studying Abroad, Clinical Shadowing, Voluntourism, Healthcare