Resource-intense Treatments in a Resource-finite Environment
Resource-intense Treatments in a Resource-finite Environment

Author(s): Richard Wai Ming Law
Subject(s): Law, Constitution, Jurisprudence, Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, Ethics / Practical Philosophy, Court case
Published by: Trivent Publishing
Keywords: Charlie Gard; Alfie Evans; children law; law; ethics; medical crowdfunding; healthcare; paediatrics; childcare; life sustaining care;
Summary/Abstract: Resource-intense medical treatments place significant financial burdens on healthcare systems especially in the provision of life sustaining care to critically unwell patients. Although decisions on whether to continue life sustaining treatments are typically based on medical need and likely clinical benefit, discussions on available resources and how they are best allocated remain relevant to healthcare professionals. The legal cases of Charlie Gard and Alfie Evans provide an important backdrop to the discourse on resource allocation. Both have successfully utilised medical crowdfunding to raise significant funds of their treatments. This chapter discusses the clinical and legal implications of limited resources and the nature of the impact that medical crowdfunding exerts on resource allocation.

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