Modus operandi for ethical action in social and health care in the era of digitalisation

Abstract

The ethical operational model developed in SotePeda 24/7 project in 2018-2020 has since its launch been used in continuous learning in social and health care. The model was developed to work as a tool in identification of ethical issues in the digitising operational environment of social and health care, as well as to support ethical evaluation and decision-making. When the ethical operational model is embraced, it results into internalizing the reflective process of the model and increases the ability to face ethical dilemmas in the mode of modus operandi indicating socio-culturally established ways of engaging and of doing things. Our aim in this study is to evaluate the experiences gained of the implementation of the ethical operational model in continuous learning in social and health care. As research methods we apply qualitative evaluation: program theory-based and systems approach. As material of the study, we address the experiences gained from the practical use of the model. Additionally, we scrutinize the ethical operational model as an artefact, as co-constructed object, and make use of the multifaceted data from the time of developing the model. The results of our study indicate that when the ethical operational model has been systematically used in continuous learning, the experiences have been overall positive, increasing awareness and ethical competence of the participants. From the point of view of its systemic impact, the scrutiny of the ethical operational model as an artefact, indicates that the focal constituents embedded enable even those new to the model to engage in it and to develop the content further via reflection. We conclude that the ethical operational model has found its way in active use as means of continuous learning in social and health care. The model may gradually become infused in digital era practices and be vitally present in action as modus operandi.

Exploring and Extending Human-Centered Design to Develop AI-Enabled Wellbeing Technology in Healthcare

“…Ethics and sustainability [2,35,38] factors guiding and promoting ethical activities contribute to the realization of the reflective process of ethical and sustainable activities. In ethical problem-solving, professionals base their judgement on legislation and ethical guidelines as well as on the ethical basis of social and healthcare.…”

“…In ethical problem-solving, professionals base their judgement on legislation and ethical guidelines as well as on the ethical basis of social and healthcare. Ethical activities are promoted and facilitated, for example, through ethical management, organizational structures, and operational culture [2]. Sustainability also refers to Future insights into AI-enabled services.…”

“…The use of mobile technologies, telemedicine and other digital tools intended to support clinical decisions has improved health workers' performance and mental health, as well as their competencies [1]. Digitalisation also requires new ethical reflection skills from healthcare professionals to understand factors of guiding and promoting ethical approaches [2]. There is an urgent need for effective digital tools and technologies and an unprecedented rush to implement eHealth services, including telemedicine consultation and digital contact tracing, in countries across the WHO Region.…”

“…When designing medical devices and wellness technology, it is crucial to consider evidence-based design and experience-based approaches in service design [23]. The ethical perspective is also essential [2], particularly during the design process, which involves transdisciplinary cooperation with professionals from various sectors [24].…”

Introducing technology to support older people living at home – a qualitative study of ethics from the perspective of care professionals

“…The introduction of technology in the home care setting requires new skills of personnel: new ways of working [13,14] more thorough ethical thinking [13,15] and decision-making skills [15]. Digitalization has increased the need for ethical competence and common ethical guidelines, and operating models are needed to support health care workers [16,17]. The ethical aspects of technology are not discussed to the same degree as their usefulness, accessibility, and effects on the relationship between clients and health care professionals [18].…”