Medical emergencies - a doctor's duty to help

A medical emergency is a sudden, unforeseen injury, illness or complication that requires immediate or prompt treatment to save life or prevent further injury, pain or distress.

You have an ethical obligation as a doctor to respond promptly if needed for a medical emergency. If you choose not to attend a medical emergency, you must be able to justify your decision.

This statement sets out legal and ethical considerations as a doctor when responding to a medical emergency. 

Current statement