Document 1947
 DOCN  M94A1947
 TI    Ethical criteria for decisions on the distribution of scarce resources
       in AIDS care and research.
 DT    9412
 AU    Benn C; Christian Medical Commission, World Council of Churches, Geneva.
 SO    Int Conf AIDS. 1994 Aug 7-12;10(1):415 (abstract no. PD0268). Unique
       Identifier : AIDSLINE ICA10/94370628
 AB    OBJECTIVE: AIDS with its social and economic consequences especially in
       poor countries creates ethical dilemmas for the fair distribution of
       scarce resources. Criteria need to be developed for ethically justified
       decision making. METHODS: Various philosophical theories of distributive
       justice are analyzed with reference to different cultural and religious
       convictions. The findings are applied to the problems of AIDS treatment
       in resource-poor communities, research priorities, criteria for vaccine
       trials and international sharing of resources. RESULTS: Most concepts
       define justice as equity. Resources have to be distributed according to
       need. Research should benefit the most affected, respect cultural values
       and require the full participation of the communities concerned.
       CONCLUSION: Countries with high HIV prevalence rates have received only
       a limited share of international resources for prevention and care.
       Research priorities need to be adapted to principles of justice.
 DE    Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/*THERAPY  Culture  *Ethics,
       Professional  *Health Care Rationing  Human  HIV Seroprevalence
       International Cooperation  Poverty  Religion  Research  *Social Justice
       MEETING ABSTRACT

       SOURCE: National Library of Medicine.  NOTICE: This material may be
       protected by Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S.Code).