Scientific Sessions

Ethics and patient-centered care in neurology are essential pillars in managing conditions that often involve complex diagnoses, long-term treatments, and profound impacts on quality of life. Neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis can impair cognition, decision-making, and independence, raising important ethical concerns about autonomy, informed consent, and shared decision-making. Neurologists must balance respecting patient autonomy with ensuring safety and well-being, particularly when cognitive decline or communication barriers make it difficult for patients to fully participate in their care choices. Ethical dilemmas may also arise in end-of-life care, the use of emerging technologies like brain-computer interfaces, or access to expensive treatments such as gene therapies. Addressing these challenges requires a thoughtful, transparent, and compassionate approach that upholds dignity and fairness.

Patient-centered care in neurology emphasizes treating individuals as active partners in their healthcare journey rather than passive recipients. This approach involves tailoring treatments to the unique needs, values, and preferences of patients while engaging families and caregivers as part of the care team. Effective communication, empathy, and cultural sensitivity are central to building trust and supporting patients through difficult diagnoses and complex treatment decisions. Advances in digital health tools, telemedicine, and precision medicine also raise new ethical considerations around data privacy, accessibility, and equity in care delivery. Ultimately, combining strong ethical principles with patient-centered care ensures not only better clinical outcomes but also a more humane and holistic experience for individuals living with neurological conditions. This approach reaffirms the importance of compassion, respect, and inclusivity as guiding values in modern neurology.