On the occasion of World Bioethics Day, the event, titled “Decisions with Light,” brought together healthcare professionals and specialists to reflect on ethical challenges and the importance of respecting individuals' rights, values, and preferences in decisions about their health and care.
The conference began with institutional welcomes from representatives of the Alicante-Sant Joan Health Department's management and the territorial director of Health for Alicante, Francisco José Ponce. Subsequently, Rafael Pacheco, a Doctor of Medicine and Surgery and a full member of the Royal Academy of Medicine of the Region of Murcia, delivered the lecture "The Autonomy of Will in the Clinical Care Context".
One of the discussion panels focused on decision-making for individuals with Alzheimer's, addressing competency assessment, necessary support, research advancements, and care ethics. It was highlighted that an Alzheimer's diagnosis does not necessarily imply a loss of decision-making capacity.
This panel included Fernando Dahl, a neurologist at the hospital; María del Remedio Pérez, a social worker and coordinator for AFA Alicante; and Agustín Domingo, a professor of Moral and Political Philosophy at the University of Valencia. The session was moderated by M.ª Vicenta Rigo.
The conference also featured a recognition of philosopher Adela Cortina with the 2026 Bioethics Award, as part of the program to promote ethical reflection in healthcare.
M.ª Carmen López Cuesta, president of the Healthcare Bioethics Committee, emphasized the importance of incorporating an ethical perspective into clinical decisions, explaining that the committee provides recommendations for ethical dilemmas, considering both legal compliance and bioethical aspects, as "no situation is the same".
López Cuesta also stressed the importance of training and information, as well as the need to balance technological advancements with respect for life and the individual. The second edition of these conferences has allowed for the sharing of experiences and analysis of situations where healthcare needs must be reconciled with patient autonomy and rights.
