AIDM equips future dentists with practical training in bioethics and patient rights

KARACHI: Recognising the growing importance of ethical decision-making in modern healthcare, the Department of Medical Education at the Altamash Institute of Dental Medicine (AIDM) organised a Basics of Bioethics Workshop for final-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) students and House Officers at its Defence Campus.

Held on June 20, 2026, the workshop formed part of AIDM's Longitudinal Themes (PERCLS) course and aimed to strengthen participants' understanding of ethical principles that frequently arise in clinical practice.

The session was facilitated by Dr Sumera Saeed, Assistant Professor at the Department of Medical Education, Bahria University Health Sciences, who holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Bioethics and is currently pursuing a Master's degree in the field. The workshop was co-facilitated by Dr Sadaf Siddiqui, Assistant Professor, Department of Orthodontics, Altamash Institute of Dental Medicine, and coordinated by Dr Maha Khan of the Department of Medical Education.

Adopting an interactive approach, the workshop engaged participants in discussions and practical scenarios focusing on key issues such as patient privacy, confidentiality and informed consent. Through reflective exercises and case-based learning, students examined the ethical responsibilities associated with handling patient information and maintaining trust in professional practice.

The workshop commenced with an ice-breaking activity designed to explore participants' perceptions of privacy and confidentiality in healthcare settings. Discussions encouraged students to consider ethical dilemmas from multiple perspectives and appreciate the balance between patient rights, professional obligations and sound clinical decision-making.

Organisers emphasised that early exposure to bioethics is essential in preparing future dental professionals for increasingly complex clinical environments where patient autonomy, data protection and professional accountability play an increasingly prominent role.

The event concluded with Dr Hasnain Sakrani, Principal of Altamash Institute of Dental Medicine, and Dr Shaur Sarfaraz, Director of the Department of Medical Education, presenting a letter of appreciation to Dr Sumera Saeed in recognition of her contribution to promoting bioethics education among future healthcare professionals.

The initiative underscores AIDM's continued commitment to professional development and excellence in dental education by equipping future practitioners with the ethical competencies needed to deliver patient-centred and responsible care.