What Ethical Dilemmas Do Social Workers Face in the Healthcare Area in Spain?

Soc Work Public Health. 2023 Feb 17;38(2):135-146. doi: 10.1080/19371918.2022.2104414. Epub 2022 Jul 23.

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to identify the types of ethical dilemmas that Spanish social workers face in the healthcare arena (health centers, hospitals and mental health). A quantitative methodology was chosen using the questionnaire prepared by Eileen J. Ain. The questionnaire has been translated and adapted for Social Work in Spain. The statistical analysis shows the correlation between the different areas of intervention in Social Work and the most significant ethical dilemmas that such professionals have to solve (autonomy, confidentiality and informed consent). This article is an essential study on Social Work at the national level that emphasizes the importance of the ethics of Social Work in the Healthcare area.

Keywords: Ethics; Spain; ethical dilemmas; healthcare; social work.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Delivery of Health Care*
  • Humans
  • Social Workers*
  • Spain