Redefining Non-Beneficial and Futile Treatment: Insights from Dr. Peter DePergola

Bioethics for the People

In this episode, Tyler and Devan are joined by Dr. Peter DePergola to explore policies addressing non-beneficial treatment requests, medical futility, and inappropriate treatment demands. Dr. DePergola, the Shaughness Family Chair for the Study of the Humanities at Elms College, is an Associate Professor of Bioethics and Medical Humanities with joint appointments in Philosophy, Religious Studies, and Biomedical Sciences. He also serves as Director of the Undergraduate and Graduate Bioethics and Medical Humanities Programs and Executive Director of the Saint Augustine Center for Ethics, Religion, and Culture.

Dr. DePergola shares insights from his recent policy revision work, focusing on refining the concepts and language surrounding non-beneficial treatment, futility, and related ethical challenges in medical decision-making.