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How A Physician’S Religious Beliefs Frame An End-Of-Life Prognosis For A Terminally Ill Patient, Tyler Hershenhouse

Undergraduate Research and Engagement Symposium

The relationship between a physician’s religious beliefs and how they frame an end-of-life prognosis for a terminally ill patient is poorly understood. Most physicians strive to provide the best patient centered care while attempting to respect the patient’s religious beliefs during final moments of life. This study seeks to uncover if a physician’s religious beliefs have any influence on the prognosis provided to a terminally ill patient. Data collected suggests physicians who identify as Atheist responded with no significant correlation to hastening or prolonging treatment for a terminally ill patient, but there are indications to a higher degree to patient …