Canadian physician, patient advocate and social agent

Abstract

This thesis considers the rationalization of health care in Canada. It focuses on the conflicting roles modern physicians play in our system, acting as both patient advocate and social agent. It begins by tracing the origin of both of these duties. It then examines the ethical, professional, and legal issues which arise in the limited circumstances where front-line physicians must participate in the rationing of health care. It offers a framework for resolving the double agent dilemma and states five interlocking recommendations which are the building blocks of the resolution.