Islamic Medical Ethics in Disasters

The principles and goals of Islamic medical ethics set the criteria for professional behavior in all situations especially in accidents and disasters. In this study, the altruistic manifestations of moral behavior in performing professional duties for victims of accidents and disasters were reviewed as well as during the COVID-19 epidemiological crisis.

This study was performed by using expert medical ethics opinions which were obtained through focus group discussion methods and reviewing national and international references.

Objectives, principles, foundations, values, norms and indicators of Islamic medical ethics in crises and disasters, favorable approach in patient care, ethical manifestations, and also professional challenges and shortcomings in crises and disasters were reviewed. Modeling of Islamic medical ethics and Islamic ethical and spiritual patterns in crises and disasters with lessons learnt from the COVID-19 pandemic were presented in this study.

The first and most important issue in unforeseen events and disasters is to prevent life-threatening and human losses. Preserving lives of victims, protecting human rights and dignity, and observing all of standards of medical ethics and Islamic professional etiquette that are necessary in all circumstances are important in disasters.