Alternative regulatory perspectives of obstetrics and gynaecology.

In addressing whether the field of obstetrics and gynaecology demands internal self-regulation or external state intervention, the authors look at the distinct yet at once interrelated notions of ethics, deontology and law. The distinctness of these concepts relates not only to their optional and/or obligatory natures, but also to the group and/or groups they influence and/or regulate. The interrelated nature of these concepts suggests that they are complimentary paradigms in as much as they collectively form a framework of individual, professional and societal norms. Given the emergence of both legal pluralism and self-regulation over the last two decades, it is believed that neither self-regulation nor state intervention is in itself appropriate. Rather, it is contended that only a pluralistic system--incorporating ethics, deontology (self-regulatory models) and law (state regulatory model) can effectively and comprehensively regulate the medical community so that it may efficaciously and appropriately respond to the continually emerging issues raised by contemporary medicine.