Rationing Trauma Care to the Elderly: An Ethical Dilemma

Abstract

It is estimated that by 2025, 25% to 35% of the people in this country will be older than 65 years. One of the hazards facing the elderly is the risk of trauma. Currently, one third of the total resources spent on trauma care are expended on the elderly, and this number will increase as the elderly segment of the U.S. population continues to grow. Despite aggressive care, the elderly trauma patient's chances of a good outcome are slim. However, is it ethical to ration trauma care on the basis of age? A case study of an elderly trauma patient provides an opportunity to apply an ethical decision-making model to the question.