Discussions on bioethics, criminal law and Jehovah’s Witness patients

Abstract

This study aims to reflect on the bioethical and juridical aspects tied to the doctor-Jehovah’s Witness patient relationship. To that end, the work will focus, initially, on the doctor-patient relationship faced with the therapeutic obstacles of this group of patients, studying the relationship from the historical standpoint and elucidating the topics about the patients of this religion. Then, we will focus on the bioethical principles involved in the care for Jehovah’s Witness patients, discussing each principle and its incorporation to the care for this group. Finally, we will focus on the juridical approach in the light of the patient’s fundamental rights, characterizing the constitutional and criminal norms that apply to the care of health professionals to patients of this religion.