Mentalidad
Bioethics: the irreplaceable role of the human factor in the face of technology
Paloma Firgaira
2026-01-08
5 min read
Experts in hospital ethics, José María Galán and Alejandro Florit, highlight bioethics as an essential pillar for improving decision-making in medicine and scientific research. Although its presence is constant in the healthcare field, bioethics remains a vague concept for many professionals, who often are unaware of its scope and real utility. To address this gap, the Hospital Foundation and San Juan de Dios Spain have signed a collaboration agreement that reinforces both entities' commitment to promoting bioethics.
The Ethicare'25 Bioethics Congress, held in Barcelona, is one of the first joint initiatives arising from this agreement. Under the slogan "What matters is people," the event reflects the humanistic approach shared by both institutions. José María Galán, director of Ethics at San Juan de Dios Spain, emphasizes the importance of prioritizing people, especially the most vulnerable, above any other interest. This principle extends to patients, professionals, volunteers, and collaborators.
Alejandro Florit, director of Hospital Identity at the Hospital Foundation, points out that while many organizations claim to put people at the center, in their case, it is a tangible reality and the core of their daily work. Bioethics, although it may seem theoretical, translates into concrete decisions: from patient autonomy in treatment choices to support at the end of life, always respecting human dignity, especially in vulnerable groups.
Both experts agree that legislation aims to protect patients, although this is not always achieved in practice. Galán highlights that collaboration between the two institutions can strengthen the defense of human rights in healthcare and social environments. Florit reflects on the social contradiction of defending rights only when they do not affect our immediate surroundings.
The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and technological advancements pose new ethical challenges. Galán warns that AI is transforming the doctor-patient relationship and raises dilemmas about data protection and clinical decision-making. Florit adds that bioethics must find a balance between scientific advancement and the need to establish limits, avoiding dehumanization. Both agree that while AI can be a valuable tool, it should not replace human relationships or professional responsibility.
The debate extends to the impact of technology on personal relationships, especially among young people, who, despite being hyper-connected, experience high levels of loneliness. Florit laments that digitalization does not always translate into authentic connections, as reflected in concerning data on mental health and suicides.
Finally, the experts wonder if one day we will be able to trust a machine as we do a person. Although this seems unlikely today, they acknowledge that the pace of technological advancements could surprise us. The conversation remains open, inviting reflection on the role of bioethics in an increasingly digitalized world.