Ethical triage during the COVID-19 pandemic: a toolkit for neurosurgical resource allocation
Open Access
- 1 July 2020
- journal article
- review article
- Published by Springer Science and Business Media LLC in Acta Neurochirurgica
- Vol. 162 (7), 1485-1490
- https://doi.org/10.1007/s00701-020-04375-w
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic confronts healthcare workers, including neurosurgeons, with difficult choices regarding which patients to treat. Methods In order to assist ethical triage, this article gives an overview of the main considerations and ethical principles relevant when allocating resources in times of scarcity. Results We discuss a framework employing four principles: prioritizing the worst off, maximizing benefits, treating patients equally, and promoting instrumental value. We furthermore discuss the role of age and comorbidity in triage and highlight some principles that may seem intuitive but should not form a basis for triage. Conclusions This overview is presented on behalf of the European Association of Neurosurgical Societies and can be used as a toolkit for neurosurgeons faced with ethical dilemmas when triaging patients in times of scarcity.Funding Information
- Leiden University Medical Center
This publication has 3 references indexed in Scilit:
- Fair Allocation of Scarce Medical Resources in the Time of Covid-19The New England Journal of Medicine, 2020
- Principles for allocation of scarce medical interventionsThe Lancet, 2009
- Setting Limits: Medical Goals in an Aging SocietyJournal of Public Health Policy, 1988