Communication and epistemological shortcomings limit the bioethics approach in health education and practice

This article analyzes the teaching of ethics and bioethics (TEB) in multiprofessional residency programs (MPRPs) linked to Rio Grande do Norte Federal University, Brazil. To understand TEB in the seven programs investigated by the study, we assessed theoretical perspectives in the pedagogical plans, comparing them to UNESCO’s Bioethics Core Curriculum. To evaluate practical aspects, we conducted 11 semi-structured interviews (employing the saturation criterion) with preceptors, which were assessed using content analysis (framework approach). The pedagogical plans’ course loads and thematic modules fell short of the Core Curriculum recommendations. The preceptors were unaware that TEB was part of the MPRPs. Improving the quality of university communication and services and recognizing preceptors’ contributions to resident education and training are key measures needed to improve TEB.

Keywords
Bioethics; Bioethics topics; Internship and residency; Health workforce training