Ensuring Ethical Care at the End of Life

The Philip Littman Memorial Fund for Medical Ethics supports the essential work of medical ethics at MJHS Hospice, helping ensure that every patient receives end-of-life care grounded in compassion, dignity and thoughtful decision-making.

A key focus of this work is advocating for unrepresented or isolated patients who cannot make their own medical decisions and have no family or designated health care agent to speak on their behalf. Each year, the MJHS Hospice Ethics Committee reviews multiple such cases to ensure that care decisions reflect the patient’s best interests.

In one recent case, the committee guided decision-making for an older adult with advanced dementia and progressive cancer who had no one to advocate for them. After a multidisciplinary review, hospice care was recommended, allowing the patient to receive comfort, symptom management and compassionate support at the end of life.

The fund also strengthens ethical practice across MJHS Hospice by helping cover the cost of medical ethics education and training for clinicians. These opportunities deepen staff expertise and foster ongoing ethical awareness throughout the organization.

Support for the Philip Littman Memorial Fund ensures this vital work continues—advancing ethical decision making and honoring the dignity of every patient served.