FIKKIA PPDH Public Lecture: The Importance of Ethical Standards for Future Veterinarians
The Professional Veterinary Medicine Education Program (PPDH) at the Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Natural Sciences (FIKKIA) of Universitas Airlangga hosted a public lecture titled “Professionalism, Legislation, and Veterinary Ethics” on March 11, 2025. The event featured Dr. Muhammad Munawwaroh, Chairman of the Indonesian Veterinary Association (PB PDHI), as the keynote speaker and took place at the Mojo Campus Auditorium.
Keynote Highlights
During the lecture, Dr. Munawwaroh highlighted the necessity for veterinarians to adhere to both ethical and professional standards, emphasizing their role in providing responsible veterinary care. He noted that veterinarians are critical contributors to animal healthcare, a responsibility that necessitates developing skills in disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis
Dr. Munawwaroh identified accurate diagnosis as a key skill that differentiates veterinarians from other professionals. He explained that the precision of a diagnosis is vital for initiating appropriate treatment and allows for early illness detection. This process often requires thorough assessments that go beyond basic examinations, including laboratory tests such as hematology and urinalysis.
Ethical Framework in Veterinary Practice
The speaker also discussed the ethical framework that underpins professional conduct in veterinary practice, specifically through the Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR). He stated that fostering strong relationships among veterinarians, clients, and patients is essential for maintaining high professional standards and ensuring animal welfare.
Broader Responsibilities of Veterinarians
Furthermore, Dr. Munawwaroh indicated that veterinarians have responsibilities not only towards their patients but also towards pet owners and the wider community. A solid grasp of professional ethical guidelines is therefore crucial.
The Significance of the Veterinary Practice License (SIP)
Another significant aspect of the discussion was the importance of the Veterinary Practice License (SIP). Dr. Munawwaroh described the SIP as more than a mere administrative necessity; it serves as legal evidence of a veterinarian’s qualifications and expertise in providing animal healthcare services.
Lifelong Learning and Collaboration
He urged attendees to commit to lifelong learning, emphasizing the need to remain informed about developments in veterinary medicine due to the continually evolving nature of the field. Dr. Munawwaroh encouraged future veterinarians to collaborate with academia to advance research informed by practical experiences.
Conclusion
In summary, he posited that broadening professional knowledge is essential for enhancing veterinary standards, advocating for educational pursuits that extend beyond traditional university settings.
Author: Azhar Burhanuddin
Editor: Ragil Kukuh Imanto
Source: Universitas Airlangga
