Medical Training from the Hippocratic Perspective

Abstract

Introduction: Contemporary medical training faces the challenge of balancing science and humanism. Although it is evidence-based and has rapidly advanced technologically, the fundamental relationship between physician and patient is often lost sight of. The Hippocratic perspective, which emphasizes empathy, ethics and holistic patient care, provides a valuable framework for reevaluating and improving medical education.

Objective: To present the relevance of Hippocratic thinking in contemporary medical education.

Development: Ethics, according to Hippocrates –as embodied in the famous Hippocratic Oath and other texts of the Hippocratic corpus–, has been fundamental to medical practice since ancient times. Among the modern challenges and adaptations of Hippocratic ethics are dilemmas such as abortion, euthanasia and genetic manipulation, which require careful consideration in today's context. Integrating and contrasting Hippocratic principles with new ethical approaches is not only necessary, but imperative in order for medical education to remain relevant and effective in an ever-changing world.

Conclusions: The continuing relevance of Hippocratic thinking in contemporary medical training is indisputable. In this way, medical training can continue to be relevant, effective and focused on the patient humanity; ensuring that technological advances do not overshadow the importance of care and empathy in medical practice.