THE EVOLUTION OF THE HIPPOCRATIC OATH: FROM THE PAST TO THE PRESENT

Abstract

The deontological principles founded on the rational and ethical concept of medicine by Hippocrates helped shape the development trends of Western European medicine. His teachings continue to serve as an ethical guide for medical professionals worldwide. Objective of the study ‒ to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the content of the “Hippocratic Oath”, its influence on the formation of the modern ethical concept of medicine, and to clarify the role of its values in contemporary medical practice and society. The Oath is founded on a set of fundamental principles: responsibility before the gods and invoking them in prayer for favor; duties and respect toward teachers and students; care for the patient; professional competence of the physician; recognition of the value of human life; maintaining the confidentiality of patient information; adherence to ethics and integrity; awareness of the limits of one’s own experience, prohibition of performing complex surgical procedures without proper training; as well as principles of reward and punishment. The ethical principles laid down by Hippocrates have transformed over time due to the advancement of medical science and technology, digital technologies, and evidence-based medicine. Modern medical practice relies both on the physician’s skills and experience and on contemporary evidence, which is why clinical judgment and treatment are constrained by algorithms and protocols. Ethical aspects of abortion and euthanasia today are clearly regulated by the legislation of each country, which a physician must follow when making professional decisions. The implementation of evidence-based medicine and medical care protocols ensures a standardized approach by physicians to patients depending on the nature of the pathology. Issues such as organ donation and transplantation, as well as the ethical aspects of participation in medical research, have become relevant only in the modern era and therefore are not reflected in the Hippocratic Oath. At the same time, the principle of confidentiality in the doctor–patient relationship has undergone certain changes due to the emergence of extensive medical documentation, the development of digital technologies, and the influence of mass media. The classical Hippocratic Oath has served as a moral compass for physicians for many generations. Its key value lies in affirming the principles of humanism and compassion toward patients, preserving medical confidentiality, and maintaining profound respect for human life