Medical conduct on trial: one decade of proceedings in Minas Gerais

This study analyzed 1,363 ethical proceedings involving physicians in Minas Gerais between 2012 and 2022. The majority were men with more than 20 years of experience, involved in proceedings related to professional liability in surgical areas. Acquittal occurred in 50.2% of cases, with public censure being the most frequent penalty. The need for continuous updates was identified: in documentation for young and experienced physicians, in advertising for mid-level general practitioners and in professional interaction among specialists. The complaints, according to the complainant, indicated the need for more precise enforcement strategies, such as reinforcement in public institutions and guidance on the importance of the physician-patient relationship. The severity of sanctions in cases related to human rights highlighted the ethical importance of this chapter of the Code of Medical Ethics. It was concluded that, for ethical regulation to be effective and consistent with professional reality, educational and enforcement interventions should be guided by the most vulnerable sanctioned professionals and the most prevalent violations.

Keywords:
Medical errors; Whistleblowing; Codes of ethic; Ethics, medical