JCB News
JCB Scholars Program in AI Ethics and Health Accepting Applications Now for October 2020
The University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics, in partnership with AMS Healthcare, is seeking applications for the JCB Scholars Program in AI Ethics and Health. > Continue reading
Live Updates on COVID-19 from DLSPH
We continue to monitor the development of the COVID-19 pandemic and are working in partnership with the Provost’s Office on a coordinated response for students, faculty and staff. > Continue reading
COVID-19 Bioethics Resources
The University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics has compiled a novel coronavirus (COVID-19) resource page that includes information on previous public health emergencies, resources for COVID-19 preparedness planning and response, and information and updates from Canadian governing bodies and the World Health Organization. > Continue reading
Medical Assistance in Dying is Not Driven by Socioeconomic Vulnerability or Poor Access to Palliative Care
A new study of people who received medical assistance in dying (MAiD) in Ontario found that about three quarters were followed by palliative care at the time of their request for MAiD, and recipients were younger, wealthier, more likely to be married and substantially less likely to live in an institution than the general population at time of death. > Continue reading
MHSc in Bioethics Program - Q&A Sessions for September 2020 Admittance
We are offering some online Q&A sessions for the Master of Health Science (MHSc) in Bioethics program. These sessions are for anyone interested in attending classes beginning in September 2020. > Continue reading
JCB Expands Artificial Intelligence Ethics and Health Platform with New Research Director Role
We are excited to announce that Dr. Jay Shaw has accepted the role of Research Director, Artificial Intelligence (AI) Ethics & Health at the University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics (JCB). > Continue reading
U of T's Leading Bioethics Centre to Design Ethical Artificial Intelligence for Health
Partnership between Joint Centre for Bioethics and AMS Healthcare to shape the future of artificial intelligence in Canada's health system. > Continue reading
MHSc in Bioethics Program - Q&A / Information Sessions for September 2019 Admittance
The JCB will be holding a few Q&A / information sessions for the Master of Health Science (MHSc) in Bioethics Program. The sessions are for those interested in attending classes beginning in September 2019. The deadline for applications is November 26, 2018... > Continue reading
JCB Visiting Scholar Profile: Mara Ambrosina de Oliveira Vargas
Mara is a Visiting Scholar and will be with us until December. We welcome her to the JCB! > Continue reading
Professor Barbara Secker Retires from the University of Toronto
In June 2017, Prof. Barbara Secker (Associate Director, JCB) retired from the University of Toronto. We will miss Barb greatly and wish her all the best! > Continue reading
Ethical Framework for Resource Allocation During the Drug Supply Shortage
Ontario's health system is currently facing a shortage of sodium bicarbonate. In 2012, the University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics developed a document entitled “Ethical Framework for Resource Allocation During the Drug Supply Shortage” which remains relevent to the most recent shortage. > Read the document
JCB Biennial Report 2014-2016: "Integrating Public Health and Health Care Ethics"
The JCB is pleased to share our first biennial report... > Continue reading
6th Annual JCB Research & Awards Day
The JCB held its 6th Annual Research and Awards Day celebration on May 31, 2017... > Continue reading
Recap: 28th Annual Canadian Bioethics Society Conference
On May 24-26, the Canadian Bioethics Society (CBS) held its 28th annual conference in Montreal... > Continue reading
MHSc in Bioethics Program - Q&A / Information Sessions for September 2018 Admittance
The JCB will be holding a few Q&A / information sessions for the Master of Health Science (MHSc) in Bioethics Program. The sessions are for those interested in attending classes beginning in September 2018. The deadline for applications is January 19, 2018... > Continue reading
Research Opportunities for Students
There are a number of research opportunities available for students to gain experience in the field of bioethics... > Continue reading
In Memory of Professor Joseph Michael Boyle
On September 24th the JCB lost an important member of our community... > Continue reading
Visiting Scholar Profile: Carolyn Ells
The JCB is pleased to welcome visiting scholar, Carolyn Ells. She will be with us from September 2016 to May 2017... > Continue reading
JCB Task Force Releases Updated Medical Assistance in Dying Policy Template
On October 11, 2016, the University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics (JCB) released the updated Medical Assistance in Dying Policy Template created by the JCB Task Force on Implementing Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID)... > Continue reading
Debbie Rolfe: A Personal Reflection on the Passing of Bill C-14
My friend calls me a worry specialist, and while initially I took some offense, I realize that a lifetime of worry does entitle me to the rank of specialist. Most recently I have been worried about my relationship with and responsibilities to my mother... > Continue reading
Ruby Rajendra Shanker Reflects on Her First Year as a Fellow in Clincial and Organizational Bioethics
In October 2015, when I began the Fellowship in Clinical and Organizational Bioethics with the University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics, I wrestled with mixed emotions... > Continue reading
JCB MAID Task Force Releases Briefing Document: A Review of the Literature on Capacity Assessment Tools within Mental Health Practice
Through on-going work by the JCB Task Force on Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) and the mental health and addictions subgroup, coupled with evolving practice, capacity assessment for MAID requests has been recognized as an area requiring more standardization ... > Continue reading
MHSc in Bioethics Program - Q&A / Information Sessions for September 2017 Admittance
Jennifer Gibson, JCB Director, is hosting the Q&A / information sessions for the Master of Health Science (MHSc) in Bioethics Program. The sessions are for those interested in attending classes beginning in September 2017. The deadline for applications is January 17, 2017... > Continue reading
5th Annual JCB Research & Awards Day
On June 22, 2016, JCB members, faculty, staff and students gathered to celebrate the outstanding achievements of the JCB community... > Continue reading
Lauren Notini on Her First Year as a Fellow in Clincial and Organizational Bioethics
Since beginning the Fellowship in Clinical and Organizational Bioethics with the JCB in October 2015, I have worked on numerous ethics-related projects and activities, and have had many rewarding experiences... > Continue reading
JCB Task Force Releases Medical Assistance in Dying Draft Policy Template as a Resource for Ontario Health Institutions
On June 6, 2016, the University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics (JCB) released the Medical Assistance in Dying Draft Policy Template created by the JCB Task Force on Implementing Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID)... > Continue reading
High Stakes Surgical Decisions and Unwanted Care: The Balfour Lecture in Surgical Ethics
University of Wisconsin vascular surgeon, Gretchen Schwarze, presented an excellent example of empirical ethics on April 6, 2016 at the 2nd Annual Balfour Lecture in Surgical Ethics... > Continue reading
JCB Visiting Scholar Profile: Angel Petropanagos
Angel Petropanagos is currently visiting the JCB. She will be with us from April-June 2016, so please help us give her a warm welcome! > Continue reading
Medical Assistance in Dying in Canada - Ethics Resources
In April 2015, the JCB commissioned a Task Force on Physician-Assisted Death (PAD) to anticipate and respond to ethical issues related to the implementation of PAD in Canada. > Continue reading
CBS 27th Annual Conference - Achieving Better Health: The Role of Bioethics Education, Engagement and Exploration
The 27th Annual Conference and Meeting of the Canadian Bioethics Society (CBS) is fast approaching. As Co-Chairs of this year's conference, we hope you will be able to join us at the Marriott Downtown Eaton Centre Hotel in Toronto from May 25th to May 28th. > Continue reading
JCB Visiting Scholar Profile: Solomon Benatar
Solly Benatar will be a visiting scholar at the JCB again, and he will be with us from April-July 2016. We look forward to welcoming him back! > Continue reading
JCB Task Force Outlines Key Considerations for Addressing Interim Requests for Physician-Assisted Dying in Canada
The JCB Physician-Assisted Death Implementation Task Force has created a checklist for healthcare organizations of key considerations that address interim requests for a PAD exemption... > Continue reading
JCB Working Group Explores the Ethical Dimensions Related to Implementing Physician-Assisted Death
On Wednesday, the University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics (JCB) released the discussion paper An Ethics-based Analysis and Recommendations for Implementing Physician-Assisted Dying in Canada... > Continue reading
MHSc in Bioethics Program - Information Session on February 17, 2016
Jennifer Gibson, JCB Director, is hosting a final online information session on February 17th for the Master of Health Science (MHSc) in Bioethics Program. This session is for those interested in attending classes beginning in September 2016. The deadline for applications is March 1st... > Continue reading
JCB Visiting Scholar Profile: Noriko Nagao
Noriko Nagao is currently visiting the JCB from Japan. She will be with us from January-March 2016, so please stop by and say hello! > Continue reading
JCB 20th Anniversary Celebration: Distinguished Service to the JCB and Outstanding Alumni of the JCB Award Winners
During the JCB's 20th Anniversary Celebration, we were very pleased to present two new awards that had been created specifically for the event... > Continue reading
U of T Experts Offer Recommendations on Physician-Assisted Dying; JCB Task Force Releases Report on Physician Assisted Death in Canada
This week, two reports were published on physician-assisted dying, both of which emphasize a collaborative, equitable approach that is part of a continuum of end of life care options... > Continue reading
Provincial-Territorial Expert Advisory Group Completes Report On Physician-Assisted Dying
Jennifer Gibson, Director of the University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics, was the co-chair for the expert advisory group on physician-assisted dying... > Continue reading
Frederick Lowy, Founder, Talks about the Origins of the Joint Centre for Bioethics
The University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics (JCB) is on the verge of celebrating its 20th Anniversary (on Wednesday, December 2nd), so we looked back and talked to Frederick Lowy, one of the original founders, on where the JCB's origins lie... > Continue reading
A Tribute to Dr. Christine Harrison
In this issue, we pay tribute to Dr. Christine Harrison. Christine was a leading member of the JCB from its beginning in 1995, a dear colleague, mentor and friend to many in the JCB community, who left us far too soon in June of this year... > Continue reading
SickKids Bioethics Grand Rounds: Christine Harrison - Life and Legacy in Paediatric Bioethics
Rounds will discuss some of Christine's key contributions in paediatric bioethics and their relevance today... > Continue reading
Canadian Bioethics Society: 27th Annual Conference (Early Highlights)
The CBS 2016 Conference is being hosted by the University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics. Discover some of the early highlights of this year's event... > Continue reading
Director of the University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics to Co-Chair Provincial-Territorial Expert Advisory Group Convened On Physician-Assisted Dying
Jennifer Gibson, Director of the University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics, will co-chair an expert advisory group on physician-assisted dying... > Continue reading
MHSc in Bioethics Program - Information Session Dates for 2015
Barbara Secker, the MHSc in Bioethics Program Director, will be hosting several information sessions at the JCB again this year. These are for individuals interested in the MHSc Program. There will be a brief overview followed by a Q&A session, so bring your questions!... > Continue reading
4th Annual JCB Research & Awards Day
On June 24, 2015, JCB members, faculty, staff and students gathered to celebrate the outstanding achievements of the JCB community... > Continue reading
University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics joins the Dalla Lana School of Public Health
On July 1, 2015, the University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics (JCB) will join the Dalla Lana School of Public Health as its new home faculty... > Continue reading
Q&A: University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics joins the Dalla Lana School of Public Health
On July 1, 2015, the University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics (JCB) will join the Dalla Lana School of Public Health as its new home faculty. The School achieved Faculty status at U of T on July 1, 2013. Students, faculty, staff and partners can refer to this Q&A to address transition questions... > Continue reading
World Health Organization (WHO) Report: "Global Health Ethics: Key Issues"
The JCB is pleased to share this new WHO report which is the first technical document of the Global Network of WHO Collaborating Centres (WHO-CC) for Bioethics... > Continue reading
A New Educational Initiative Injects a Dose of Ethics into Surgical Morbidity and Mortality Conference
"Does this 80 year-old patient understand a Whipple operation (pancreatic cancer resection)?" "My patient does not have a genetic predisposition, but she is requesting bilateral mastectomies. What should I do?"... > Continue reading
The JCB's Working Group on Difficult Transitions
The University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics' working group on Difficult Transitions has recently had their manuscript accepted to Nursing Ethics... > Continue reading
Dr. Philip Hébert Presents at Markham Stouffville Hospital
On March 3, 2015, Markham Stouffville Hospital hosted Dr. Philip Hébert who presented at Ethics Grand Rounds... > Continue reading
Dr. Norman Fost talk on "The Unimportance of Death"
Organ transplantation has long relied upon the "dead donor rule", which requires that the donor be dead before organs can be removed... > Continue reading
Public Health Ethics: What is it, Why is it Important, and What's Next?
Public health ethics has emerged as a distinct area of scholarship and practice since the Joint Centre for Bioethics first opened its doors twenty years ago... > Continue reading
National Health Ethics Week Events - March 2-8, 2015
In collaboration with the Nova Scotia Heath Ethics Network (NSHEN), and participating organizations across Canada, the Canadian Bioethics Society is coordinating the 2nd annual National Health Ethics Week... > Continue reading
National Health Ethics Week at UHN
Bioethicists wear many different hats. They consult, teach and research ethical issues in health care. They help develop policy and create resources for patients, families and staff... > Continue reading
Professor Charles Bosk - Open Classroom Session at the JCB
Professor Charles Bosk will present the inaugural Balfour Lecture in Surgical Ethics... > Continue reading
OPINION: "Patient-centred" – what does it mean and how achievable is it?
"Patient-centred care" is on everyone's lips these days. But, do we all agree what it is and when it has been achieved? And does patient centredness create new ethical dilemmas for patients and providers? The University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics (JCB) and Healthy Debate are partnering to explore some of the practical and ethical implications of patient-centredness... > Continue reading
The JCB is 20 Years Old!
Did you know? The JCB turns 20 this year! To mark this important milestone, the JCB 20th Anniversary Planning Committee is planning a variety of activities and events to celebrate the impact and accomplishments of JCB students, graduates, faculty, members & partners... > Continue reading
Ebola Resources
Several of the University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics (JCB) affliated ethicists and members are consulting with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other governing bodies on the ethics of the Ebola outbreak - including treatment and prevention measures, and other concerns. > Continue reading
Detaining Ebola - U of T professor and WHO panel member Ross Upshur on the ethics of quarantine
To quarantine or not to quarantine? That is the question that has surrounded nurse Kaci Hickox since she returned to the United States from Sierra Leone where she treated Ebola patients. > Continue reading
Professor Jennifer Gibson has been appointed as Director of the JCB
Professor Jennifer Gibson has been appointed as Director of the Joint Centre for Bioethics, effective April 1, 2014 for a three year term. She has been serving as Interim Director over the past year. > Read Announcement by Catharine Whiteside, Dean, Faculty of Medicine 
JCB Re-designated WHO Collaborating Centre for Bioethics
The JCB has been re-designated a World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Bioethics for the period of April 2014 to March 2018. The JCB received its first designation in 2002, when it became the first WHO Collaborating Centre for Bioethics (WHO-CC). In 2009, it co-founded and was inaugural chair of the Global Network of WHO Collaborating Centres 
for Bioethics, which comprises 6 WHO-CCs in 4 WHO regions.
In the past, the JCB has provided expert consultation on global health ethics issues related to infectious disease (e.g., XDR-TB, HIV-AIDS), research governance (e.g., conflict of interest), and health system planning (e.g., pandemic preparedness) and contributed academic expertise to the development of WHO guidance documents and ethics curricula. Most recently, the JCB has been collaborating with the WHO Global Health Ethics Unit on a CIHR-funded project to develop an evaluation framework for research ethics systems.
Over the period of its re-designation, the JCB's joint work plan with the WHO will focus on 4 key areas based on the academic strengths and interests of our affiliated faculty members and partners and the needs of WHO member states:
- Mental health and chronic disease ethics
- Research ethics
- Public health ethics (infectious diseases, e.g., public health surveillance, epidemics/pandemics)
- Health services & system ethics (palliative and end of life care, priority setting, universal healthcare coverage)
The work plan provides a valuable framework to advance scholarship and practice in global health ethics, to enhance learning opportunities for our students/trainees, and to strengthen local collaborations in global health among the JCB's academic and health sector partners.
Physician Assisted Dying (PAD) Education Program
The JCB teaching module on PAD developed by Dr. Larry Librach (former JCB Director) was presented at the Canadian Bioethics Society Annual Conference in Banff, Alberta in June 2013. The following slides provide an introduction to the teaching module... > Continue reading PAD Education Program
Publication: Population and Public Health Ethics: Cases from Research, Policy, and Practice
The University of Toronto Joint Centre for Bioethics (JCB) is pleased to announce the release of a new publication: Population and Public Health Ethics: Cases from Research, Policy, and Practice. This book brings together 16 cases of ethical issues encountered across a range of public health issues and sectors and presents accompanying analyses by leading experts in public health ethics. The book's foreword was written by former JCB Director, Dr. Ross Upshur. > Read more
> Download Population and Public Health Ethics: Cases from Research, Policy, and Practice 
