Wednesday (02/08) Center for Bioethics and Medical Humanities held the Raboan Discussion Forum again. The webinar, which was held online, raised the topic of Cultural Influence on Clinical Ethics. The speaker was Peter Johannes Manoppo Bioethicist, General Surgeon. Meanwhile, the role of the moderator was Nathan Agwin Khenda, Ftr.
Culture influence is the influence of culture or tradition in clinical practice. The challenges that arise in the doctor-patient relationship occur because of differences in culture and language. One of the cultural influences of paternalism is when doctors make decisions without considering patient autonomy.
In applying clinical ethics, cultural context, relationships between groups, and medical ethical codes must be considered. Culture and tradition influence arguments, medical indications, and patient wishes.
The solution to overcoming cultural differences is forming bridging groups, such as nurses or patient families, who can help bridge the communication between doctors and patients. This can improve patient comfort, doctor’s analytical ability, and benefit both parties.
It is very important for doctors to have soft skills such as the ability to communicate and understand cultural differences. This can provide benefits for improving interaction and collaboration with local communities in efforts to improve health services in various contexts.
