MONDAY, March 23, 2026 (NewsDay News) — Ways to navigate and resolve disputes surrounding parental requests for potentially futile treatments are discussed in a clinical report and accompanying technical report from the American Academy of Pediatrics, published online March 23. Pediatrics.
Dina Levine, MD, of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, and colleagues provide guidance for pediatricians and other physicians to resolve disputes when parents (or child decision-makers) request interventions that are not medically recommended and are directed at potentially life-threatening situations.
According to the authors, it is ethically appropriate to refrain from unnecessary physiological interventions and unnecessary interventions, regardless of the patient’s or parent’s request. Physicians have a moral obligation not to offer such interventions. Developing a goal-directed treatment plan by identifying the patient’s or parent’s goals can avoid irresolvable conflict and is an important step in patient and family care. Gathering additional information and involving relevant parties may be helpful if the parent continues to request treatment that the medical team finds ineffective. A clear resolution process should begin with obtaining a second opinion to help clarify misunderstandings and help parents and doctors find common ground. Transfer to another institution should be considered.
“If a systematic and transparent approach does not result in conflict resolution or transfer to an alternative place for care, there is uncertainty or even the potential for the benefit of the requested permanent treatment, and there is no serious risk of harm to the patient, it is appropriate to consider the emotional burden on the family or to unilaterally consider medical intervention or to stop medical intervention. medical treatment of life”, – write the authors.
One author disclosed his affiliation with Chiesi USA.
Abstract / Full Text – Clinical Report
