SAARC virtual bioethics moot highlights healthcare stigma

ISLAMABAD: Pressing issues of discrimination and stigma within healthcare settings were discussed with reference to Article 11 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights at a virtual event organized by SAARC Bioethics Units at the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC). 
The event gathered healthcare professionals and bioethics experts from across the SAARC region to address stigma’s pervasive impact on patient care.
In her opening address, Dr. Princy Louis thanked the heads of SAARC Bioethics Units and outlined the agenda, which aimed to promote regional collaboration on bioethics. 
Prof Russell D’Souza, Head of the Asia Pacific Division and International Chair in Bioethics, emphasised the need for bioethics to integrate perspectives from gender studies, critical theory, behavioural economics, and social justice. 
He highlighted the mission to advance bioethics education and clinical practice, stressing the importance of interdisciplinary dialogue and the role of bioethicists in shaping inclusive healthcare systems across the region.
Prof Mary Mathew presented a detailed analysis on the impact of discrimination in healthcare, defining stigma as a powerful process of labeling, stereotyping, and marginalisation that results in significant social and health disadvantages. 
She cited leprosy as a case where patients suffer not only physical isolation but social exclusion, adding that stigma impedes diagnosis, treatment, and positive health outcomes. 
Prof Mathew urged healthcare institutions to combat stigma associated with conditions like HIV, mental illness, and substance abuse to foster a more supportive care environment.
PMDC President and Head of Pakistan’s Bioethics Unit, Prof Rizwan Taj, acknowledged the widespread impact of stigma within healthcare facilities and its harmful effects on patient care. Although awareness is growing, he noted that concrete interventions remain limited, creating a significant barrier to quality healthcare. 
Emphasising Article 11’s advocacy for reducing stigma in medical settings, he said that stigma affects patients, families, and communities, often undermining healthcare policies and staff interactions, adding that curbing stigma would benefit both patient outcomes and the healthcare environment.
Unit heads from Sri Lanka and Nepal also highlighted the importance of using precise and compassionate language to discuss conditions like mental health disorders and HIV to reduce stigma and promote understanding.
The event concluded with participants committing to a healthcare culture where discussions of mental health, post-traumatic stress disorder, tuberculosis, HIV, and other illnesses are as openly accepted as conversations about diabetes or hypertension. 
They agreed that addressing stigma is vital to providing equitable healthcare and improving overall health outcomes across the region.