Kittitas Valley Healthcare is proud to celebrate one of our own, Hospital Commissioner Matthew Altman, on the publication of his newest book, The Hackett Introduction to Medical Ethics: A Guide for Students, Clinicians, and Ethics Committees, co-authored with scholar Cynthia D. Coe.
As a public hospital district, KVH is committed not only to providing excellent care but also to engaging in thoughtful, values‑driven conversations about the role of medicine in society. Dr. Altman’s work exemplifies that commitment. His book offers a practical and accessible guide to complex questions that shape modern healthcare, from clinical decision‑making to healthcare policy and research.
According to the publisher, The Hackett Introduction to Medical Ethics “addresses key debates and analyzes prominent ethical perspectives on clinical medicine, healthcare policy, and human experimentation. Using numerous case studies, Altman and Coe apply value theory to contemporary medical practice and trace the repercussions for philosophical issues such as autonomy, death, and justice. The book invites a range of readers to investigate urgent moral questions at the intersection of the body and social institutions.”
This is more than a scholarly achievement; it is a reflection of the kind of leadership and inquiry that strengthens our local healthcare system. In an era when healthcare continues to evolve at a rapid pace, having a commissioner who is actively contributing to the national dialogue on ethics is both exciting and deeply meaningful. Dr. Altman’s expertise brings thoughtfulness and clarity to challenging conversations, ultimately benefiting the patients, families, and clinicians we serve.
Through clear explanations and real‑world examples, Dr. Altman and Dr. Coe make ethical theory approachable for learners and professionals alike. Their work supports healthier systems by helping clinicians and administrators better evaluate questions surrounding patient autonomy, access, resource allocation, and the responsibilities we share as a community committed to care.
We are grateful for Dr. Altman’s continued service to Kittitas County both through his leadership on our hospital board and his commitment to the broader field of medical ethics. His scholarship represents the best of what it means to serve: to ask hard questions, to listen, and to help us all navigate the complexities of caring for one another.
Please join us in congratulating Commissioner Matthew Altman on this important contribution to the field of medical ethics.