ethical ramifications of medicine and psychiatry in cyberspace

Ethical Ramifications of Medicine and Psychiatry in Cyberspace

Custom Research by Ethical Ramifications of Medicine and Psychiatry in Cyberspace

Abstract

The proliferation of the Internet over the past several years has led to entirely new ways to conduct many of the necessary activities of everyday life in a hectic society , such as banking , shopping , catching up on the day 's events , and the like . As this surge in technology has increased , the use of the Internet for medical and psychiatric services has become popular as well . In this , the researcher will discuss

br the ethical ramifications of medicine and psychiatry in cyberspace upon conclusion of this , the reader will have a broader understanding of this sometimes controversial subject

Doctor .Com

The title of this section of the is not an endorsement for a Website specifically , but rather the heading to indicate that the use of the Internet for medical purposes , such as pharmaceuticals , general medical advice , and the actual consultation of patients by doctors , has risen significantly in recent years . With this boom in mind , the question emerges of whether or not this is ethical ? There appears to be no one answer that will apply in all situations rather , it is dependant upon various factors and the situation in which the Internet is medically used . As an example , if an individual seeks general medical information online , and it is used as a reference and not a substitute for the services of an actual medical professional , most people would agree that this would not pose a problem however , there are some ethical issues that need to be considered even in the case of fact finding . A key consideration is whether or not the information is from a reliable source , such as a leading medical school or publication , an organization that specializes in information about a given , and so forth . Particular caution

must be taken to avoid disreputable or outright incorrect information dispensed online (Net Advice for Your Ailments ,2001 . If blind faith is taken in a Website without making sure the information is accurate , the results could be deadly . Something that is ethically questionable according to most sources is the widespread existence of online pharmacies ' that will dispense often dangerous drugs on the Internet without an examination or prescription from a doctor who has examined the patient in person this , too can cost the patient their life if done with lack of proper discretion . It is morally reprehensible that an online pharmacist would dispense controlled substances in such a way , but it is happening more and more all of the time . In fairness , however , within the proper context , medical information and some services can be offered in cyberspace in a morally correct fashion

Psychiatry Online

Just as individuals log on to the Internet to seek treatment and advice for physical ailments , they also seek the same in the case of emotional infirmities . Online psychiatry has become a highly lucrative business for many therapists , who prefer this type of...