Withholding of Care
/ˈwɪðˌhoʊldɪŋ əv kɛər/
Definitions
- (n.) The deliberate decision by medical providers to not initiate or to discontinue medical treatment or life-sustaining measures.
The court examined whether the withholding of care was justified under the patient's advance directive.
- (n.) The refusal to provide necessary medical treatment, which can implicate legal and ethical issues regarding duty of care and patient rights.
Withholding of care without consent may constitute medical negligence or malpractice.
Forms
- withholding of care
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Withholding of care often arises in contexts involving end-of-life decisions and must be distinguished from withdrawal of care; precise documentation and adherence to legal standards are essential to avoid liability.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.