To the editor:
While I certainly respect an individual's right to conscientiously object to any societal policy, we cannot forget that medicine in its ideal form is an institution that knows no political, religious or private beliefs. Thus, as practicing physicians, we must respect a patient's right to obtain individualized health care treatment even when that treatment is contrary to our political, religious or other individualized beliefs. It is only as private citizens that we should express our views to governmental agencies and representatives. When we limit our public responsibilities via our private beliefs, we do a significant harm both to medicine and to society at large.
Stanley Forfa, D.O.
Northville, Mich.
