Alan Fleischman, MD

Dr. Fleischman discusses his journey into bioethics, starting from his upbringing in Queens, New York, to his education at City College and Albert Einstein College of Medicine. He recounted his early experiences in neonatology that led to his contributions to bioethics, particularly in perinatal ethics. He discusses the evolution of neonatal care and ethics. Fleischman highlighted the advancements in care and societal acceptance of Down syndrome children. He detailed the development of amniocentesis in the 1960s and 70s, the Baby Doe case in 1982, and the subsequent Baby Doe rules in 1983. Fleischman also discusses challenges of balancing parental discretion in the context of medical ethics, emphasizing the importance of shared decision-making and medical judgment.

He discusses the emergence of HIV/AIDS, the high rates of neonatal transmission, and the development of AZT treatment as well as the ethical challenges of clinical trials when treating HIV-positive mothers and their infants. He describes the New York Academy of Medicine’s efforts post-9/11, including epidemiologic research and mental health support for children. Dr. Fleischman discusses his position as Senior Vice President and Medical Director at the March of Dimes, where he helped transform obstetric practice in America to reduce premature births and cesarean deliveries. He recounts the expansion of newborn screening tests and his work advocating for mandatory testing to prevent treatable diseases. He reflected on his career transition from clinical practice to bioethics, emphasizing the importance of public health advocacy and government collaboration.