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FHW Medical Ethics Committee

What is the Medical Ethics Committee?

The FHW Medical Ethics Committee is an advisory group comprised of professionals across the spectrum of care at FHW, including physicians, nurses, non-physician providers, the chaplain, and compliance staff. The Committee is available to meet with patients, families and/or members of the healthcare team to discuss difficult decisions

Why does FHW have a Medical Ethics Committee?

There are three primary functions of the FHW Medical Ethics Committee:

  • Education – The Committee will coordinate medical ethics educational programs for FHW staff and physicians and will make reports as needed to the Board of Trustees and the Medical Executive Committee.
  • Policy review – The committee will serve as an advisory body for FHW administration and the FHW medical staff related to the development and review of policies and procedures concerned – with ethical issues in patient care.
  • Consultation – Committee members offer confidential advice related to ethical conflicts, issues, or questions involving patient/resident care. All consultation is free of charge.

What does the Medical Ethics Committee do?

When a consultation with the Medical Ethics Committee is requested, committee members will review the patient’s medical situation and treatment options. The Committee will discuss all available information to determine a suggested best course of action, which may include multiple options.


Final health care decisions will be made by the patient, the patient’s family, and the health care team.

How can consultation by the Medical Ethics Committee be requested?

Individuals may request a consultation by contacting any of the following:

Medical Ethics Committee Hotline or email: 970-200-1735 / [email protected]
Chaplain/Patient Advocate: 970-858-2182
Case Management: 970-858-2141
Chief Nursing Officer: 970-858-2180
Director of Medical Affairs: 970-858-2234

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