medical ethics

ABSTRACT This article critiques the darker dimensions of hospice care and the coercive undercurrents of the broader healthcare system. Drawing on empirical studies, ethical analyses, and personal narratives, it argues that while hospice care is often idealized as compassionate end-of-life care, it can mask systemic neglect, profit motives, and disempowerment of patients. Similarly, coercion—both overt and subtle—pervades healthcare decision-making, particularly in mental health and end-of-life contexts. Through examination of institutional failures, Medicare exploitation, and ethical frameworks, this analysis reveals how systems designed to provide comfort, and care can paradoxically become mechanisms of control and neglect. The article calls for increased transparency, accountability, and ethical vigilance in reforming hospice oversight and addressing coercive healthcare practices. Keywords: Hospice care, healthcare coercion, medical ethics, end-of-life care, patient autonomy

Opinions of students about current medical law application were investigated. Students (n=401) who participated in this study were enrolled in the health management undergraduate programs of various public and private universities. The data regarding important topics of medical law were gathered by questionnaires. In this study, the determination of the student concerns and some of their effects have been evaluated. It was found that the participants believed that patients tend to file lawsuits at high rates; current laws are not sufficient to protect healthcare workers; and regulations seem to protect patients more than health professionals. Legal refrain in health care workers may lead to behaviors that impede institutional goals and detract from patient-centered approaches.