Ethical Dilemma During Limited Resource in Covid-19 Pandemic and The Urgency of Bioethics Education [Raboan Discussion Forum]

Wednesday (30/08) The Center for Bioethics and Medical Humanities held a regular Raboan Discussion Forum. The activity, which was held online, invited speakers, Dr. Ervin Dyah Ayu M. D., M.Sc, who is an alumnus of the UGM bioethics master’s study program and a lecturer at the University of Surabaya. The topic presented was The Urgency of Bioethics Education in Allocating Limited Resources. Acting as moderator is Noviyanti Fahdilla, S.Tr.Keb, MPH.

The COVID-19 pandemic has raised various ethical dilemmas in treating patients. In conditions where human resources (HR) and facilities are limited, doctors and medical personnel face demanding situations that result in services not being optimal and many patients needing to be treated.

It is also prone to misunderstandings and conflicts between doctors and patients. With limited resources, doctors are forced to choose which patients receive treatment first. A doctor’s decision needs to be understood by patients, and patients require an explanation from doctors and health workers.

Dr. Ervin explained that there is a guide to resource allocation when in limited condition. However, these guidelines need to be adapted to Indonesian culture. Thus, bioethics training or education with an Indonesian cultural background is essential for students, doctors, and health workers to improve their communication skills and cultural competence.