Analyzing the Ethical Implications of Resource Allocation and Patient Autonomy in Rehabilitation Medicine

Ethical dilemmas in rehabilitation medicine, especially around resource allocation and patient autonomy, play a critical role in clinical decision-making. The challenge of limited resources makes it essential to understand how physicians navigate these issues in their daily practice. The objective is to analyze how resource constraints affect ethical decision-making in rehabilitation, focusing on balancing patient autonomy with the allocation of limited resources. A survey was conducted with 73 rehabilitation doctors, assessing their views on key ethical issues in resource-limited settings. Chi-square tests were used to identify associations among demographic factors and ethical attitudes, Correlation Analysis examined the relationship between views on resource allocation and patient autonomy. Regression Analysis was employed to identify significant predictors of ethical decision-making, with an emphasis on experience and professional background. Chi-Square Tests showed that Patient Autonomy Priority (χ² = 5.12) were more likely to prioritize patient autonomy, while Resource Allocation Efficiency (χ² = 6.21), more experienced doctors leaned toward resource efficiency. Correlation Analysis revealed a moderate relationship between attitudes toward resource allocation and patient autonomy, suggesting potential conflicts in decision-making. The findings underscore the influence of demographic factors on ethical decision-making in rehabilitation medicine. Understanding these influences can guide interventions aimed at fostering a more balanced, patient-centered approach to care in resource-limited environments, offering valuable insights for improving ethical practices in clinical settings.