I-21: Medical Ethics Education: Advancements in Iran

Background: History of medical ethics shows a great attention toward morality and ethical behavior in practice of Iranian physicians. Traditional medical ethics with its conventional methods of teaching have been included in medical education by Iranian physicians over centuries. However, modern academic methods of medical education have also been introduced in medical schools. We aim to summarize the main activities and achievements in medical ethics education in Iran in recent decades. Overall trends in medical ethics education and its academic status will be reviewed. Materials and Methods: This is a review of published and non-published information on medical ethics education in Iran in recent three decades. Results: Iranian physicians have put great emphasis on the issues of medical ethics and ethics education. In 2002, the Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MOHME) introduced a strategic planfor medical ethics. The second main goal was focused on medical ethics education. One of the main achievements over recent decades has been the reconstruction of the system of medical ethics education at different levels. Educational opportunities in medical ethics, including a wide variety of academic courses, conferences, and seminars, have increased considerably through decades. The movement of educational methods towards new and more interactive approaches has paved the way for introducing medical ethics courses as innovative and attractive programs. Considering the lack of qualified teachers in Iran, plans for training specialists in medical ethics received special attention by establishment of MPH course (with a medical ethics focus) and doctoral course (PhD) in medical ethics. Conclusion: Medical ethics education in Iran has experienced a big change in recent decades. Despite great advancements, there are some shortcomings in medical education. Integrated curricula across all levels of education should be strengthened to develop critical thinking skills and critical analysis in students. Longitudinal themes of professionalism and ethics education would be very helpful in this way. Moreover, electronic education makes possible teaching materials to be openly available for all those who are interested in the issues.