Definitions

• Conscience: An inner state or faculty linked to an awareness of moral limits and to the ability to distinguish right from wrong.
• Personal Conscience Objection: Due to sincerely held moral or religious beliefs, the desire or intent to refuse to provide a treatment or procedure that is expected by the ordinary standard of care or requested by a patient.
• Conscientious Refusal: Due to sincerely held moral or religious beliefs, the actual refusal to provide a treatment or procedure that is expected by the ordinary standard of care or requested by a patient.

Source: Galston, W. & Rogers M. (2012). Health Care Provider’s Consciences and Patients’ Needs: The Quest for Balance. The Brookings Institution.