Because Of Increasing Concern With The Ethical Challenges To Physicians In Recent Years, A Committee Of The Council Of Medical Specialty Societies (CMSS), Under The Chairmanship Of Sara C. Charles, Md, Organized A 2-DAY Symposium On The Ethic Of Medicine In April 1997. During This Conference 6 Workgroup Sessions Were Held For The Purpose Of Developing A Consensus Among The 17 Represented Medical And Surgical Specialties On Whether The Traditional Medical Ethic Remains Applicable Or Is In Need Of Adaptation Or Change To Guide Physician Behavior In The 21ST Century. An Initial Statement Was Developed At The Time Of The Meeting, Then Modified By Mail And Finally Presented To All 17 Member Societies For Further Comment. The Following Is The Result Of That Extended And In-DEPTH Review.