Table 2 Goals and objectives of ethics training programs

Build Knowledge

To understand the historical background and definition of ethics [47, 48], social science, philosophy, religion and law and their relevance to clinical care [49–51].

To gain knowledge and awareness of ethics issues relevant to individual practices in the course of patient care [47, 49, 51–58].

Improve Skills

Improve problem-solving skills by thinking critically and systematically when an ethical dilemma arises such as by providing opportunities for doctors to discuss ethical dilemmas [47–49, 51–53, 55, 57, 59–62]

Appreciate the socio-cultural nuances and individual circumstances of the patient and/or their family in the context of the ethical dilemma [60, 62].

Develop interpersonal skills to resolve ethical conflicts [48, 50, 55, 63–65].

Reduce likelihood of physician making an ethical error or legal error [49, 50, 52].

Overall, improve patient care and clinical decision making and adherence to ethical guidelines as part of research [50, 60, 66, 67].

Change Attitudes and Professional Identity

Develop appropriate attitudes, values that facilitate ethical conduct [68] [57, 58].

Maintain high level of professionalism and ethical practice [49, 54].

Increase self-awareness and understanding of professional boundaries [48, 49, 52].

Prevent cynicism and detachment in patient interaction and gainincrease job satisfaction [48, 50, 52, 64].

Help doctors become good teachers and future role models [69, 70].

Fulfil Duty to Society

Sustain and improve accountability to public [69, 70] to fulfil physicians’ ethical and service obligations [49, 60, 70,76].