Exploring the concept of vulnerability in health care

The Oxford English Dictionary defines "vulnerability" as "the quality or state of being exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed, either physically or emotionally." In one sense, vulnerability is characteristic of the human condition; however, definitions and applic...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Canadian Medical Association journal (CMAJ) 2018-03, Vol.190 (11), p.E308-E309
Main Authors: Clark, Beth, MM, Preto, Nina, PhD
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Analysis
Bioethics
Dictionaries
Ethics
Health care
Health disparities
Human rights
Human subjects
Internal Medicine
Medical care
Morality
Principles
Public health
Vulnerability (Psychology)
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Summary:The Oxford English Dictionary defines "vulnerability" as "the quality or state of being exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed, either physically or emotionally." In one sense, vulnerability is characteristic of the human condition; however, definitions and applications of this concept in health care are diverse. As CMAJ launches its focus on vulnerable populations, we discuss different conceptualizations of vulnerability and considerations surrounding use of this term within Canadian health care contexts. "Vulnerability" is a term commonly used -- but not consistently defined -- in health care. The concept of vulnerability may be used to justify access to resources and help define our moral and ethical obligations, yet it may lead to stigmatization. Here, Clark and Preto exploring the concept of vulnerability in health care.
ISSN:0820-3946
1488-2329
DOI:10.1503/cmaj.180242