Medical ethics and the law

Both medical ethics and the law are concerned with the wellbeing of the individual — even though at times there may be conflict between what is regarded as the ‘right thing to do’ morally and what is regarded as the ‘right’ in law. Despite the differences, both share one principle, i.e. respect for individuals’ autonomous right to make decisions concerning themselves and to ensure there are safeguards for those who are not able to decide for themselves.