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Paula Martinek

2/13/2008

I have an interesting ethical issue. I evaluated a patient with bilateral chopart feet due to non diabetic issues. She is a private pay patient. We determined that custom high top shoes would give the proper support and she was casted. This patient was hesitant, but talked into the shoes by her nephew, who is quite aggressive. A few days later, she called and cancelled the shoes. She hated the idea of wearing an ugly shoe. We documented that and put the casts aside. We refunded all but a portion of the deposit for an evaluation fee. Now 2 weeks later, the patient has decided that she does want the shoes. She told the office staff that her nephew is furious with her for cancelling the order. I am strongly uncomfortable with any of this. I only want to do this if the patient herself wants the shoes. I have been advising her to get an opinion from her physician on what needs to be done and will most likely tell her I will not proceed at this time if she does not do so. I really do not want to involve myself in any family issues. Thoughts on this would be appreciated. I will also mention that the nephew will be footing the bill for her.
Thank you Paula Martinek, LPO