This is the only book of its kind, it is a medical ethics book directed squarely at the lay audience of patients and their families who are confronted by highly complex and difficult medical procedures and issues. Its topics spread across a broad range of medical concerns that are of interest to millions of Americans dealing with these issues on a daily basis. Written by two of America's premier experts on medical ethics, this book presents real-life examples of medical situations and provides clarity and insight. This book also speaks to medical professionals who work with the public on a daily basis and deal with medical ethics as part of their everyday jobs. Topics include: advance directives, Do Not Resuscitate orders, quality of life issues, patient privacy, end-of-life care, transplant ethics, reproductive issues, genetics, and more.