Ethical Issues in the Allocation of Scarce Resources in Healthcare Policy

 

Title: Ethical Issues in the Allocation of Scarce Resources in Healthcare Policy

Thesis Statement

The allocation of scarce resources in healthcare policy presents ethical challenges rooted in the principles of distributive justice, as discussed in “Policy & Politics in Nursing and Health Care 8th Edition.” Two key principles, equality and need, give rise to ethical dilemmas concerning fair resource distribution and prioritization of care, highlighting the complexities of decision-making in healthcare policy.

Principle of Equality

The principle of equality posits that resources should be distributed equally among individuals. An ethical issue that arises from this principle is the challenge of balancing equal distribution with the concept of equity in healthcare. In reality, not all individuals have the same healthcare needs or vulnerabilities. Allocating resources purely based on equality may fail to address the varying levels of need within a population, resulting in inequitable access to care.

Principle of Need

The principle of need emphasizes allocating resources based on the level of need or urgency. One ethical issue associated with this principle is the subjective nature of assessing need. Determining who is in greater need of scarce resources can be influenced by various factors, including biases, personal values, and clinical judgments. This subjectivity can lead to potential injustices if not carefully monitored and standardized in decision-making processes.

In conclusion, the principles of distributive justice, particularly equality and need, play a pivotal role in shaping ethical considerations surrounding the allocation of scarce resources in healthcare policy. Addressing the ethical issues stemming from these principles requires a nuanced understanding of fairness, equity, and transparency in decision-making to uphold ethical standards and promote just healthcare practices.