ASPECTS OF DEVELOPING BIOETHICAL COMPETENCE IN FUTURE MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS

Abstract

In the fields of modern medicine, biology, and law, there has been a growing awareness of bioethical issues. These issues are related, firstly, to the advancements in science and, secondly, to the not always positive consequences of using modern biotechnologies on humans. To address the complexities of various bioethical matters, proper education and upbringing are necessary. Great expectations are placed on graduates of higher medical educational institutions who acquire specialized (professional) competencies, including in the field of bioethics (the set of moral principles, norms, and rules to be adhered to in professional activities). Bioethics equips future medical professionals not only with knowledge about specific medical ethical questions but also teaches them to approach problems from an interdisciplinary perspective, fostering the ability to take moral responsibility and make ethically sound decisions. Bioethical education aims to shape and develop bioethical competence as an integral part of a future worker’s professional competence. Knowledge of bioethics is crucial not only for safeguarding individual lives, whether sick or healthy, young or elderly but also for ensuring the existence of life on Earth itself. This article presents certain aspects of fostering bioethical competence in future medical professionals using the example of teaching the subject «Fundamentals of Bioethics and Biosecurity» at Cherkasy Medical Academy (based on practical experience). It highlights the necessity of preparing bioethically competent medical professionals amid the cultural and intellectual crisis of contemporary society. Furthermore, it analyzes ways to improve the bioethical education system in accordance with the Standards of Higher Education in Ukraine, specialty 222 Medicine.