Ethical Challenges in Adolescent, Pediatric and Perinatal Care
Friday, December 11, 2026
9:00 am – 10:30 am Beyond the ACE Score: Childhood Trauma, Suicide Risk,
and Ethical Decision-Making
Kathryn Bonach, PhD, LSW, LPC
Chair, Department of Social Work
Program Director, BSW
Professor, College of Education and Social Work
Carlow University
Abstract: Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are associated with increased risks for complex trauma, mental health challenges, and suicidal behaviors. However, understanding these associations raises important ethical questions about how healthcare professionals assess childhood trauma, interpret ACE scores, and respond to disclosures of trauma and suicide risk.
This session examines the relationship between childhood adversity and suicide risk while exploring the benefits, limitations, and ethical implications of routine ACE screening. Particular attention will be given to balancing beneficence, nonmaleficence, autonomy, confidentiality, and patient safety when working with children and adolescents. Through an interactive pediatric case, participants will consider real-world ethical dilemmas involving suicide risk assessment, caregiver involvement, mandated reporting, and interdisciplinary decision-making.
Designed for healthcare and behavioral health professionals, this presentation emphasizes moving beyond identifying risk factors toward trauma-informed, ethically responsible clinical assessment, intervention, and coordinated care.
10:30 am – Noon Topic: Legal and Ethical Considerations in Gender Affirming
Care
Chaton Turner, JD
Senior Associate Counsel
Vice President, Civil Rights, Regulatory Affairs, Disability Resources
& External Relations
UPMC
Abstract: TBD
12:30 – 2:00 pm Hope, Uncertainty, and the Best Interests of the Child:
Ethical Decision-Making in Neonatal, Pediatric and Adolescent
Care
Christine Bishop, MD
Assistant Professor of Pediatrics
Director, Perinatal Supportive Care
UPMC Division of Palliative Medicine and Supportive Care
UPMC Division Division of Newborn Medicine
UPMC OB-GYN Reproductive Services & Pediatric Supportive Care
Abstract: TBD
2:00 – 3:30 pm When Pregnancy Doesn't Go as Planned: Ethical Challenges in
Perinatal Care
Marta Kolthoff, MD
Bioethicist
Reproductive Geneticist and Fetal Medicine Specialist
University Hospitals, Cleveland
Abstract: TBD