Tag Archive for: SDGs 3

Health Communication and Ethical Challenges: Building a Responsible Dialogue

Yogyakarta, March 19, 2025 — The Center for Bioethics and Medical Humanities (CBMH) at Universitas Gadjah Mada once again hosted its regular Raboan Sharing & Perspective Sharing session, a weekly discussion exploring various bioethics issues. This event, held online via Zoom, featured dr. Steffi Rifasa, M.H., a lecturer and Head of the Division of Bioethics and Law at the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Islam Pasundan, as the keynote speaker, with Nathan Agwin Khenda, Ftr., M.Bio.Et., serving as the moderator.

BIOETIKA HUMANIORA

On this occasion, Raboan explored the theme ‘Health Communication and Ethical Challenges: Building a Responsible Dialogue.’ The discussion emphasized the critical role of bioethics in health communication while examining various solutions for addressing medical ethical dilemmas that require effective communication between healthcare professionals and patients. The session began with an analysis of alleged malpractice cases involving medical personnel, illustrating how perspectives can differ between patients and healthcare institutions. Furthermore, it underscored that clear and transparent communication is essential in preventing misunderstandings between medical professionals and patients, which can significantly impact medical decision-making.

 

BIOETIKA HUMANIORA

Moderated by Nathan Agwin Khenda, the discussion was highly interactive, engaging participants from diverse backgrounds, including medical professionals, academics, and students. Various perspectives on bioethics and communication crises were explored in depth, particularly regarding the application of bioethical principles and the role of healthcare professionals in building patient trust through effective and responsible communication.

Steffi Rifasa, M.H., also highlighted the challenges in health communication, particularly in delivering bad news without diminishing patients’ hope. She emphasized the importance of using appropriate methods, such as the SPIKES approach (Setting, Perception, Invitation, Knowledge, Empathy, and Strategy), to ensure that difficult conversations are conducted ethically and responsibly. Additionally, she addressed the growing challenges in digital health communication, where the rise of telemedicine and the widespread use of social media as an information source—often lacking accuracy—necessitate a more proactive role for healthcare professionals in providing accurate health education.

These ethical and communication challenges are closely linked to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, which underscores the importance of effective health communication in ensuring quality healthcare and appropriate patient treatment. Furthermore, SDG 4: Quality Education highlights the need for healthcare professionals to receive proper training in ethical and empathetic communication to enhance patient interactions.

This Raboan discussion reaffirmed that effective communication in healthcare not only helps patients better understand their conditions but also strengthens the relationship between healthcare providers and patients. An ethical approach in health communication is essential, ensuring that information is conveyed in a way that fosters a deeper understanding for both patients and their families.

 

Reporter : Nadia Ulfah, Mafrida Nabilah Hanan

Editor : Alvira Rahmasari, S.H.G.

Examining the Phenomenon of Aesthetic Surgery: Medical, Ethical, and Religious Perspectives

Yogyakarta, March 12, 2025 – The Center for Bioethics and Medical Humanities (CBMH) at Universitas Gadjah Mada held a RABOAN webinar featuring Dr. Prima Maharani Putri, M.H., C.Med. as the keynote speaker.

In her presentation, Dr. Prima discussed the growing trend of aesthetic surgery, which has gained increasing popularity in modern society. “Today, achieving a flawless appearance has become a priority in professional and social interactions. Many individuals choose plastic surgery to attain the beauty standards they aspire to,” she stated.

With the rapid advancement of information technology, the promotion of aesthetic surgery on social media has become more widespread, showcasing stunning physical transformations and shaping public perceptions of beauty. However, beyond its rising popularity, various bioethical considerations and religious perspectives must also be taken into account.raboan bioetika 12 maret 2025

The webinar also explored different religious viewpoints on aesthetic surgery. In Islam, such procedures are permitted if they serve a rehabilitative purpose and provide medical benefits, but they are deemed forbidden if performed solely for beautification. Buddhism considers plastic surgery a positive action when done for health reasons but discourages it if pursued merely for aesthetic purposes. Meanwhile, in Protestant and Catholic Christianity, plastic surgery is acceptable for medical needs, such as reconstructive procedures due to congenital disabilities or injuries. In contrast, Hinduism generally discourages altering one’s physical form through plastic surgery.

Dr. Prima emphasized the importance of applying bioethical principles in aesthetic surgery practices. “Patients have the right to decide whether to undergo plastic surgery as long as it is not intended to deceive or harm themselves or others. Doctors must provide informed consent and consider ethical aspects, especially for patients who lack medical indications,” she explained.

The discussion in this webinar also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities). By examining aesthetic surgery through the lens of bioethics, religion, and mental health, this event aimed to raise public awareness of the social impact of beauty standards shaped by social media. Additionally, the webinar served as an educational platform for medical professionals and the public to better understand the importance of ethical healthcare services, ensuring that all medical procedures, including plastic surgery, provide genuine benefits to patients with clear medical indications.

The event concluded with the key message that medical professionals play a crucial role in educating the public and upholding ethical standards in aesthetic surgery. “Upholding ethics and moral values can encourage people to accept themselves as they are. Plastic surgery is not the ultimate measure of physical perfection,” Dr. Prima concluded.

Reporter : Ardhini Nugrahaeni, M.K.M.
Editor : Rafi Khairuna Wibisono, S.Kom

CBMH UGM Research Team Conducts Public Engagement Activity with Cancer Survivors at the Indonesian Cancer Foundation

The research team discusses patient autonomy with cancer survivors

Yogyakarta, February 28, 2025 – A research team from Universitas Gadjah Mada, led by drg. Agnes Bhakti Pratiwi, MPH, Ph.D, with research members Prof. Dick Willems, MD, Dra. Retna Siwi Padmawati, MA, Nabila Puspakesuma, S.Psi., MSc, Ns. Wahyu Dewi S., M.SN, Ardhini Nugrahaeni, M.K.M, and Fahmi Baiquni, S.Psi., MPH, conducted a public engagement activity as part of the research entitled Conceptualizing Patient Autonomy in Decision-Making in South-East Asian Culture: Bringing Experience from the Indonesian Context.

The activity was held at the Indonesian Cancer Foundation on February 28, 2025, involving 10 cancer survivors who have experience in the medical decision-making process, particularly related to non-emergency surgical procedures. This public engagement aimed to understand aspects considered important by patients in healthcare services during the medical decision-making process in hospitals. This activity aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) number 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and 5 (Gender Equality), which promote inclusive access to healthcare services and active patient participation in medical decision-making.

During the discussion, participants shared their experiences regarding the obstacles faced during medical treatment. One of the key findings was the significant role of close family members, such as husbands or children, in the decision-making process. Family support greatly influenced patients decisions, especially in approving elective surgery procedures. Some participants also mentioned that before undergoing medical treatment, they first sought alternative medicine.

The decision-making dynamics showed that children’s involvement often became the deciding factor when support from husbands was not optimal. This illustrates that medical decisions in the Southeast Asian cultural context, particularly in Indonesia, tend to be collective, considering the perspectives of close family members.

This public engagement activity serves as an important step in understanding patient perspectives on autonomy in medical decision-making. The results of this activity are expected to enrich the understanding of patient autonomy concepts that are more contextual and based on patient experiences in Indonesia.

 

Reporter           : Ardhini Nugrahaeni, M.K.M.

Editor                 : Alvira Rahmasari, S.H.G.

Challenges and Opportunities of Humanities in Medical Education and Services

Yogyakarta, March 5, 2025 – The Raboan Research and Perspective Sharing event returned at the beginning of March 2025, featuring a distinguished speaker, Prof. Dr. dr. Taufiq Suryadi, Sp.F (K), Dipl.BE, a Professor of Forensic Medicine and Medicolegal Studies at the Faculty of Medicine, Syah Kuala University. The presentation and discussion were highly interactive, moderated by Mahmasoni Masdar, S.Kep.Ns., M.Kep from CBMH UGM.

This session of Raboan, themed “The Role of Humanities in Medical Education and Ethical Healthcare Services,” highlighted the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in enhancing more humane and ethical healthcare services, as well as the significance of integrating humanities and culture into medical education. Prof. Taufiq emphasized three key aspects of learning humanities:

“Learning humanities, teaching in a humanistic way, and learning through humanities.”

Humanities are not merely a complementary subject but a fundamental element in shaping empathetic and integrity-driven doctors. As medical professionals, it is essential to view patients not only in terms of their illness but also in consideration of their mental, cultural, spiritual, and social conditions.

During his presentation, Prof. Taufiq provided insights into the most preferred and necessary learning models for medical students in humanities education, as well as the learning styles they favor in acquiring information.

Prof. Taufiq’s presentation aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 4 (Quality Education). Strengthening humanities education in the medical curriculum is expected to cultivate healthcare professionals who can comprehend the humanitarian, ethical, and legal aspects of medical practice.

Addressing Ethical Challenges in Healthcare

Yogyakarta, February 26, 2025 – The Center for Bioethics and Medical Humanities (CBMH) Universitas Gadjah Mada once again held its regular webinar, Raboan Sharing & Perspective Sharing. This webinar was conducted online via Zoom Meeting and featured Dr. Bondan Agus Suryanto, S.E., M.A. (Lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine, UII and FMPHN UGM) as the main speaker, with Mahmasoni Masdar, S.Kep., Ns., M.Kep as the moderator.

Presentation by dr. Bondan Agus Suryanto, S.E., M.A.

This session explored “Ethical Issues in Healthcare Services”, highlighting challenges and solutions in achieving fairness in the distribution of healthcare services. In his presentation, dr. Bondan emphasized the importance of a bioethical approach based on social justice to ensure equitable healthcare access amid limited resources. Additionally, he discussed the role of professional organizations in maintaining a balance between the interests of healthcare professionals and the needs of the broader community.

Interactive Discussion with Participants

Mahmasoni Masdar, as the moderator, led an interactive discussion involving participants from various backgrounds, including healthcare professionals, academics, and students. The session delved deeply into different perspectives on healthcare ethics in Indonesia, covering public policy roles, the influence of culture and religion, and challenges in implementing a health insurance-based system such as BPJS.

The discussion on ethical issues in healthcare services aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities. This webinar aimed to foster cross-sector dialogue to help design more equitable healthcare policies, ensuring that every individual, regardless of social and economic background, can access quality healthcare services.

CBMH UGM hopes this forum will serve as a platform for stakeholders to engage in discussions and share insights on bioethics in Indonesia. Through cross-sector collaboration, the goal is to develop healthcare policies that are fair and easily accessible to all.

Reporter          : Alvira Rahmasari, S.H.G.

Editor              : Rafi Khairuna Wibisono, S.Kom.

Understanding the Concept of Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) in Terminal Patients: Ethical and Medical Practice Perspectives

Presentation of Raboan material by dr. Lucia.Yogyakarta, 19 February 2025 – As part of the Raboan: Research and Perspective Sharing series, a discussion was held on the topic The Concept of Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Orders in Terminal Patients with DPJP”. The event featured dr. Lucia Pudyastuti Retraningtyas, SpA., M.Bio.Et, a lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Surabaya, as the keynote speaker. The discussion was moderated by drg. Agnes Bhakti Pratiwi, MPH, Ph.D., from the Center for Bioethics and Medical Humanities (CBMH), Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing (FKKMK), Universitas Gadjah Mada, as well as the UNESCO Chair on Bioethics at UGM.

This webinar highlighted various perspectives on DNR orders for terminal patients. DNR is a medical decision made by the medical team after consulting with a team appointed by the Medical Committee or Ethics Committee. Ideally, the decision-making process should involve both the patient and their family. Communication between the patient, family, and healthcare providers is crucial in identifying the patient’s values, preferences, and critical medical care decisions. dr. Lucia emphasized that DNR orders must be clearly documented and recorded in the patient’s medical records.

Discussion Session With Participant

One key point discussed was the importance of respecting patient dignity in end-of-life care. Physicians have different perspectives on DNR orders, with some agreeing and disagreeing them. Reasons for agreeing DNR Orders : reducing patient suffering and ensuring a peaceful passing; alleviating the burden on the family during the patient’s final moments, facilitating the work of other medical personnel in providing appropriate care; religious considerations that align with end-of-life dignity; legal aspects that support the implementation of DNR. Reasons for disagreeing DNR Orders: concerns over family misconceptions and potential conflicts; the belief that doctors must provide the maximum possible care to every patient; fear of causing family distress or uncertainty regarding medical decisions.

DNR is also linked to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:  SDG No. 3: Good Health and Well-Being, which emphasizes the importance of access to quality healthcare services, including palliative care and the patient’s right to decide on end-of-life care. SDG No. 10: Reduced Inequalities, which highlights that every patient has the right to make medical decisions without pressure or discrimination, including decisions regarding DNR orders.

This Raboan discussion reaffirmed that a bioethical approach to implementing DNR orders is essential in end-of-life nursing and medical decision-making. Through effective communication between doctors, patients, and families, it is hoped that medical decisions can be made ethically and in alignment with human values.

 

Reporter          : Ardhini Nugrahaeni,M.K.M

Editor              : Alvira Rahmasari, S.H.G.

Explores the Distinction Between Medicine and Health, Emphasizing Ethics and Human Rights

Yogyakarta, February 5th, 2025 – Raboan Research and Perspective Sharing returns at the beginning of February, raising an important topic related to medicine and health. This event features a distinguished speaker, dr. Noorman Herryadi, Sp.F, S.H, the Chairman of the Honorary Council of Indonesian Medical Ethics (MKEK) and a Forensic Ethical-Legal Consultant. The discussion is moderated by Fahmi Baiquni, S.Psi., M.P.H, from the Center for Bioethics and Medical Humanities (CBMH) Faculty of Medicine Public Health and Nursing FK-KMK UGM.

In this discussion, dr. Noorman Herryadi elaborates on the definitions and differences between medicine and health, which are often sources of confusion among medical professionals and the general public. Medicine is not just a science, but also an art in understanding diseases and their cures. The speaker explains that medicine encompasses various aspects, ranging from disease prediction, the relationship between humans, to the ethical principles that every doctor must uphold.

During his presentation, dr. Noorman quotes several sources, including Dorland’s Medical Dictionary and the philosophy of Paracelsus, who stated that: 

“Medicine is not only a science, but an art.” 

He emphasizes that medicine is not only limited to curative aspects but also includes other medical efforts such as promotive, preventive, and rehabilitative measures.

Furthermore, dr. Noorman stresses that medicine must be based on ethics. Medical ethics is rooted in the doctor’s oath and humanitarian principles, where doctors are required to practice their profession with high integrity.

In addition to discussing medicine, the session also highlights the definition of health based on Law No. 17 of 2023, which includes physical, mental, and social aspects. The speaker underscores that health is a fundamental human right, and the government has the obligation to provide adequate healthcare services for the public.

This session of Raboan Research and Perspective Sharing provides a deep understanding that medicine and health are interrelated but have different scopes. Medicine focuses on diagnosis and treatment, while health encompasses broader aspects, including social well-being and public policy.

In conclusion, this Raboan Research and Perspective Sharing session reaffirms that a proper understanding of medicine and health is crucial to improving the quality of healthcare services in Indonesia. A broader understanding of medicine aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), which emphasizes the importance of access to quality healthcare for everyone.

Without Calibration, Medical Devices Can Become a Threat, Not a Solution

(A presentation on medical device calibration by Anggie Maulana Subkhan, SKM, M.Bio.Et.)

(A presentation on medical device calibration by Anggie Maulana Subkhan, SKM, M.Bio.Et.)

Yogyakarta, January 15, 2025 – Raboan Research and Perspective Sharing returned with an engaging topic titled “Ethical Issues in Medical Device Calibration Services”. This event was attended by healthcare professionals, practitioners, and students interested in bioethics and medical device calibration.

The webinar featured Anggie Maulana Subkhan, SKM, M.Bio.Et, as the keynote speaker. Anggie, a calibration technician at the Yogyakarta Health Office and an alumnus of the Master of Bioethics program, brought valuable insights into the ethical challenges faced in the medical sector. He emphasized that medical device calibration is not just crucial for accreditation but also essential for patient safety, ensuring accurate measurement results.

Anggie also discussed ethical dilemmas in the calibration process, including the lack of trained personnel, unaccredited calibration institutions, and budget constraints often faced by healthcare facilities. With existing regulations, such as the Ministry of Health Regulation No. 54 of 2015 on medical device testing and calibration, it is vital for all stakeholders to understand the critical role of calibration in preventing serious health risks caused by device errors.

This discussion strongly aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being. Accurate and ethical medical device calibration ensures precise diagnoses, reduces medical errors, and enhances patient safety. Additionally, the webinar supports SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, by highlighting the importance of fair regulations, institutional capacity building, and ethical accountability in healthcare services. The collaboration among institutions discussed during this session reflects collective efforts to sustain a global health system.

The Raboan session provided profound insights into the importance of ethics in medical device calibration and its contribution to the quality of healthcare services. The event also emphasized the need for collaboration between healthcare institutions, calibration agencies, and the community to ensure calibration processes are conducted effectively and in compliance with standards.

(Group photo session with Raboan participants)

For more information, visit our Instagram pages @cbmh_ugm and @bioetika.ugm or contact us via email at cbmhfkugm@mail.ugm.ac.id.

Reporter          : Alvira Rahmasari, S.H.G.

Editor              : Rafi Khairuna Wibisono, S.Kom.

Exploring Public Health Ethics: Center for Bioethics and Medical Humanities UGM Welcomes Prof. Angus Dawson as a Visiting Professor in 2024

Group Photo of the Guest Lecture with Prof. Angus Dawson

Center for Bioethics and Medical Humanities at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) successfully held a Visiting Professor Program from November 12 to 14, 2024. The program featured Prof. Angus Dawson from the National University of Singapore (NUS) as the main speaker. The event was conducted in a hybrid format, with in-person sessions at the Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing (FM-PHN) UGM, as well as online via Zoom Meeting.

The event kicked off on November 12, 2024, with a workshop entitled “Joint Manuscript and Research/Project on Public Health Ethics.” This workshop aimed to strengthen research collaborations on public health ethics. The following day, a lunch discussion on bioethics and humanities education was held. In addition, a “Rabuan” seminar, a routine discussion series on public health topics, took place. The event was further enriched by an “exchange works/experience” session, where participants shared their insights and experiences.

The peak of the event occurred on November 14, 2024, with a Guest Lecture by Prof. Angus Dawson. This session was the most anticipated part of the event, drawing attendance from students, academics, and practitioners. Prof. Angus presented a lecture on “The Importance of Public Health,” which delved into the concepts, values, and impact of public health. In his presentation, Prof. Angus highlighted the fundamental differences between public health and clinical care. While clinical care focuses on individual patients, public health takes a community, social, and cultural approach, aiming to protect and improve health on a larger scale.

Presentation of “The Importance of Public Health” by Prof. Angus Dawson

Key takeaways from the presentation included the notion that public health is not solely about individual treatment but also about managing health risks within communities. The ethical dimensions of public health were also emphasized, given that decisions in this field often involve moral dilemmas. For example, quarantine policies for controlling infectious diseases must balance individual freedom with the protection of public health. As a result, social justice and equity in access to healthcare services become crucial principles in decision-making processes.

This Guest Lecture played a significant role in supporting several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These include SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), as it discusses patient care within the social, community, and cultural context of public health. It also relates to SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), addressing efforts to reduce inequalities in access to healthcare services and outcomes within the “societal, community, cultural context.” Lastly, it supports SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) through discussions on “autonomy and confidentiality” for patients, with a focus on personal data protection and human rights in healthcare.

The interactive discussion session was a highlight of the Guest Lecture. Students, academics, and practitioners actively asked questions and shared their perspectives. Several participants appreciated the relevance and depth of the discussion. One participant stated, “This guest lecture has broadened my perspective on how public health requires not only medical knowledge but also ethical considerations and policy-making skills. It is a field where science meets society.”

Through this series of events, Center for Bioethics and Medical Humanities UGM reaffirmed its role in fostering ethical discussions on public health issues. This program successfully bridged academic discourse, field practice, and policy, thereby promoting research collaboration and raising public awareness of the importance of public health in sustainable development.

Reporter        : Alvira Rahmasari, S.H.G.
Editor             : Rafi Khairuna Wibisono, S.Kom.

Webinar Raboan Center for Bioethics and Medical Humanities (CBMH) UGM: Family Decision Making

Center for Bioethics and Medical Humanities Universitas Gadjah Mada (CBMH UGM) held its regular Raboan event with the theme “Family Decision Making” on Wednesday, October 8, 2024. The event was hosted via Zoom and featured Lintang Sagoro, MD, a master’s student from Harvard Medical School, as the speaker. The webinar was attended by students, academics, and healthcare practitioners interested in medical ethics and policy issues.

Lintang Sagoro, MD, opened the discussion by highlighting the crucial role of the family in decision-making for the care of patients with serious illnesses. “Medical decisions are not just about the therapies to be administered, but also about how to maintain the quality of life of the patient, both physically and emotionally,” he explained. Lintang Sagoro, MD emphasized that honest and transparent communication between patients, families, and healthcare providers is essential for ensuring the well-being of the patient, especially in the context of palliative care.

In the first session, Lintang Sagoro, MD discussed the importance of bioethical principles in medical decision-making, grounded in the values of Pancasila. The concepts of respect, beneficence, and justice, which advocate for the respect of all forms of life, including humans, animals, and the environment, serve as the foundation that must be considered in every medical decision. “The principle of patient autonomy must be balanced with family responsibility, and we need to ensure that decisions reflect the noble values that underpin bioethics,” he said.

The discussion then moved to the topic of palliative care, which aims to improve the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses. Lintang Sagoro, MD explained that palliative care is not meant to replace curative treatment, but rather to complement it by focusing on the comfort of the patient, as well as providing emotional and spiritual support for both the patient and their family.

Communication challenges between families and patients were also a key point of focus in this webinar. Lintang Sagoro, MD revealed that families often face dilemmas in disclosing the health condition of patients with severe illnesses, as they try to protect the patient from stress that may arise from unpleasant information. “It is important for healthcare providers to help families deliver information carefully and empathetically, so the decision-making process can proceed smoothly,” he said.

The webinar also highlighted the cultural differences in medical decision-making between Indonesia and Western countries. In Indonesia, medical decisions tend to involve the extended family, whereas in countries like the United States, patient autonomy plays a more dominant role in determining their care. This difference underscores the importance of understanding cultural context in medical practice.

The discussion was relevant to SDG 3 on Good Health and Well-Being, which emphasizes the importance of quality and inclusive healthcare. Family-based decision-making and honest communication in the care of patients with serious illnesses support efforts to achieve better access to holistic palliative care. This also contributes to reducing healthcare inequities and enhancing the well-being of both patients and families facing difficult conditions.

At the conclusion of the event, Lintang Sagoro, MD encouraged participants to better understand the importance of emotional support for families caring for patients with serious illnesses, as well as the need to integrate palliative care into the healthcare system. “Support for caregivers is crucial, as they not only care for the physical needs of the patient, but also face significant emotional challenges,” he remarked.

For more information, please visit the official of CBMH UGM

E-mail             : cbmhfkugm@ugm.ac.id

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Reporter          : Alvira Rahmasari, S.H.G.

Editor              : Rafi Khairuna Wibisono, S.Kom.