Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

Abstract

Between 1966–1987, a clinical trial led by O&G specialist Dr Herbert Green was undertaken at National Women’s Hospital in Auckland. Green theorised that carcinoma in situ identified in cervical smears was unrelated to cervical cancer. Many women had no knowledge they were part of the study, many did not consent to their involvement and as a result of the study, some woman developed cervical cancer and a number of women died. A ministerial inquiry investigated the study and consequently found other unethical practices at National Women’s.

As a result of the Cartwright Inquiry, a number of recommendations were made (and implemented) that changed medical practice and medical education in NZ forever.

Over the past decade, the literature has published a number of studies highlighting the use of patients (both male and female) as learning tools for medical students – often without the patient’s knowledge or consent. University of Auckland senior medical students consistently report being asked to observe or perform sensitive examinations on both conscious and unconscious patients, without their consent, in the clinical environment.

In my talk I’ll provide further context to the issue of consent in this particular context. I’ll reflect on changes made to medical education as a result of the Cartwright Inquiry, what’s currently happening, and where I believe we need to focus our attention going forward.

Forthcoming events

Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome in people with HIV: causes and consequences

Monday, 04 November 2024, 1pm to 2pm @ BDI/OxPop Building LG seminar room

Changing the face of trials of medical procedures

Tuesday, 05 November 2024, 1pm to 2pm @ Richard Doll Lecture Theatre, Richard Doll Building, Old Road Campus, Headington, OX3 7LF

mRNA vaccines and paediatric RSV

Monday, 11 November 2024, 1pm to 2pm @ BDI/OxPop Building LG seminar room

Festival of Global Health - Human Forever

Wednesday, 13 November 2024, 4pm to 8pm @ Curzon Oxford, Westgate Shopping Centre, Oxford OX1 1NZ

Fake vaccines: The problem - and finding solutions

Monday, 18 November 2024, 1pm to 2pm @ BDI/OxPop Building LG seminar rooms

The potential of vaccination to prevent congenital CMV

Monday, 25 November 2024, 1pm to 2pm @ BDI/OxPop Building LG seminar rooms