Under the title "(In)justice in the healthcare system - challenge of our time?", it became clear how ethical issues have long been part of everyday life in clinics, nursing homes and medical practices.
A day characterised by moral responsibility and limited resources
The conference was organised by the Clinical Ethics Committees of the Ordensklinikum Linz, the Convent Hospital of the Brothers of Mercy, the Upper Austrian Healthcare Holding and the Upper Austrian Hospice Association, in cooperation with the Upper Austrian Medical Training Academy and the Upper Austrian Medical Society.
In several specialist presentations, experts shed light on the ethical challenges that arise when medical services and resources are not available in unlimited quantities. How should priorities be set? What criteria are used to decide who receives which treatment - and when?
Christoph Arzt, Head of the Clinical Ethics Committee at the Ordensklinikum Linz, put it in a nutshell:
"The question of justice in healthcare is not a theoretical one, but a very practical one - for doctors:inside, nursing staff and everyone who has to make responsible decisions on a daily basis with limited resources."
Case study, panel and practice: ethics requires dialogue
A highlight of the day was the interactive panel discussion in the afternoon. A specific case was used to show how ethical issues arise in practice - and how they can be supported by clinical ethics counselling in a solution-oriented manner. It became clear that ethics needs space, reflection and, above all, interdisciplinary dialogue.
The next Upper Austrian Ethics Day is already being planned and will take place in Gmunden on 27 February 2026. The organisers want to once again send a strong signal for ethical awareness in the healthcare sector - especially in times of increasing challenges.
#It is#schongenial to be able to live in a society that is aware of its responsibility for people - and treats ethical issues in healthcare with care and humanity.
