Learning Clinical Ethics: Upholding Human Dignity During Life and End-of-Life Care

On Wednesday, 15 May 2024, the Center for Bioethics and Medical Humanities, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada (CBMH FK-KMK UGM), conducted the first day of a bioethics course with an in-depth focus on Clinical Ethics During Life and at the End of Life. The course was attended by healthcare professionals and academics who are keen to deepen their understanding of ethical issues in medical practice. This program aimed to enhance participants’ capacity to uphold human dignity in various clinical situations, both during life and in end-of-life care.

The first day of the course opened with a compelling session entitled “Preserving Human Dignity: During Life and Dying” delivered by Prof. Dr. Christantie Effendy, S.Kp., M.Kes. Participants were introduced to key concepts related to safeguarding human dignity under all circumstances, including during the dying process. Particular emphasis was placed on empathy, respect for patient autonomy, and honoring patients’ values and wishes.

The following session was led by Prof. dr. Moh. Hakimi, Sp.OG(K), Ph.D., who discussed ethical decision-making processes in clinical practice. Through interactive discussions and case studies, participants gained deeper insights into how medical decisions should be made by carefully balancing ethical principles with patients’ best interests. This session highlighted the complexity of ethical dilemmas commonly faced in healthcare settings.

The importance of cultural competence in healthcare services in Indonesia became a central theme in the subsequent session. Participants were encouraged to recognize and respect cultural diversity as a crucial element in providing sensitive, ethical, and effective healthcare services for Indonesia’s pluralistic society. The course concluded with a session entitled “Truth Telling and Withholding Information”, led by Dr. dr. Nurnaningsih, Sp.A(K). This discussion explored ethical dilemmas surrounding information disclosure to patients, including when it is ethically appropriate to disclose the full truth and when withholding information may be justified. Participants were guided on navigating these complex situations with sensitivity, professionalism, and integrity.

Overall, this bioethics course contributed significantly to strengthening ethical awareness and practical skills among healthcare professionals. The program aligns closely with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, by promoting ethical, patient-centered healthcare, and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, through capacity building and the reinforcement of ethical decision-making within healthcare institutions.

Editor : Rafi