Bioethics reflection on prioritization and rationing of health care: between social utility and equity

Abstract

Since health needs outweigh the available resources, choices are imperative. It is thus necessary to set limits, criteria, and standards in order to prioritize the supply, the recipients, and the services to be provided. Ethical alternatives are discussed for the prioritization and rationing of health care, focusing on the principles of equity and social utility.

Bioethics; Resource Allocation; Equity in Health