What would Jesus do? Act like a dick, apparently February 27, 2007
Posted by Evil Bender in Morality, News and politics, bigotry, constiutional issues, wingnuts.trackback
PZ Myers reports on a doctor who denied a patient service because the patient’s mother had a tattoo. You read that right.
I suspect he has a perfect right to do this, though I’m no legal expert. But let’s assume he does: this, to me, is the logical extension of pharmacist denying emergency contraception because of their religious beliefs. They may have a legal right to do it, but they should feel a professional obligation to dispense medication: it’s their goddamn job.
And spare me the whole “the patient can go somewhere else” routine. If you’ve ever dealt with an insurance company, you know that can be a huge pain–who is in your network, who you can get referrals for, and the like. And if you’re poor, or on a schedule, or just without a ride, it can be more than a minor inconvenience to be turned away.
But beyond all that, remember one simple thing: if you’re a doctor, you’re there to help people. When I teach a class, I don’t turn students away because I object to them. My job is to teach them, and I teach them. When someone comes to you for medical aid, you don’t turn them away because you dislike them, or even because they offend you. Otherwise, why not make them swear they’re a member of your religion or political party?
It is fantastically immoral to deny someone aid you would otherwise provide simply because you disapprove of them. Unfortunately, assholes like this will likely get away with it. I’ll do my part, though, by calling this kind of hypocrisy wherever I see it, and by giving my business and support to those who practice tolerance, charity, and love.
we don’t need no stinkin’ hippocratic oath!
(btw, feliz cumpleaños to my favorite fake evil robot)
I DARE a Dr. to refuse MY daughter treatment because of my tattoos. (Especially the blatantly sacreligious rosary/blood rose combo on my back)
I thought Jesus tended to the leapers, prostitutes and maligned people his community had cast aside…..