Patient Autonomy and Decision-making in Confucian Culture "An Explorative Study"

Abstract

Objective: This study examines doctors' current perceptions on ”patient autonomy” and its moral value in Confucian clinical culture in the university hospital setting in South Korea. Methods: Three separate semi-structured focused group interviews were conducted at two university hospitals with a total of ten participating doctors. Results: AII participants understood or could infer the correct meaning of patient autonomy,” but provided short, simple answers with no in-depth knowledge. AII agreed that paternalistic decision-making is still prevalent in Korea, even though there are signs that the desire for autonomy is increasing among patients. Conclusions: Patient autonomy is still in its early stages, but is pervasive as an idea and principle. There is a significant disjunction between theory and practice, and no clear-cut demarcation between patient autonomy and family autonomy. Practice Implications: Negative cultural tendencies collide with growing individualism, globalization and awareness of patients' rights. Doctors in the Confucian cultural setting must be aware of such changes, and adapt accordingly.