Abstract

The decision whether or not to treat a newborn infant with a major birth defect or other life-threatening condition presents a multitude of medical, ethical and legal problems for all individuals involved. This is particularly true when the child’s prognosis, even with therapy, is uncertain or when treatment may result in or prolong a life fraught with substantial suffering. The proper roles of the physician and other hospital personnel, and especially of the child‘s parents, have yet to be fully or adequately resolved. Nonetheless, recent public awareness of isolated cases has made it clear that the status quo is not acceptable. The Committee on the Legal and Ethical Aspects of Health Care for Children believes that hospitals and state agencies must do more to protect seriously ill newborns and to provide greater support—medical, psychological, and financial—to those in need.