An important contribution in the burgeoning literature relating to the delivery of medical care, and to the broader question of responsible decision-making in those social areas where tragic choices have to be made. The effort is an excellent example of research into, and therapy for, an important social process.

"An important contribution in the burgeoning literature relating to the delivery of medical care, and to the broader question of responsible decision-making in those social areas where tragic choices have to be madea. The effort is an excellent example of research into, and therapy for, an important social process."

--Edward Chase, "Camden Law Journal"

This volume surveys the clinical, ethical, religious, legal, economic, and personal dimensions of decision making in situations when the choice is either to extend costly medical treatment of uncertain effectiveness, or to terminate treatment, thereby ending the patient's life. Contributors from a wide range of disciplines offer perspectives on issues ranging from the definition of medical futility to the implications for care in various clinical settings, including intensive care, neonatal and pediatric practice and nursing homes. An important contribution toward the more humane and consistent handling of these situations, Medical Futility will be obligatory reading for health care professionals, students, and scholars concerned with ethical standards in medical care.