Introduction:

Although the human values and ethical virtues that guide medical action in contemporary society constitute a very important theme, they are given little emphasis in medical training.

Objective:

Given the complexity of this issue in relation to comprehensive professional training, and since medicine is - an above all human - science, that combines technique and knowledge with people’s well-being, it is necessary to question the main bioethical challenges in medical training from a teleological and axiological perspective.

Methods:

In a reflection paper, a systematic-critical conceptual analysis of the main virtues and values debated and reflected in the Western ethical tradition is conducted by means of bibliographic comparison in light of the current state of the art of the medical training process.

Results:

A didactic-pedagogical concern with ethical-moral values and virtues such as character, love, freedom, respect, responsibility, compassion, patience, humility, fortitude, prudence, justice and courage, is not being prioritised in medical education. There is a deficit in this dimension, making it difficult for students to mature and learn the ethical-moral practices that are indispensable in our time.

Conclusion:

The current stage in the exercise of the medical profession immersed in a technicalist paradigm increasingly requires professionals with a humanist and not just techno-pragmatic background. The challenges that emerge from a constantly changing and multifaceted society require universities and medical faculties to focus, above all, on the axiological and ethical-moral dimensions of training.

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