(SOLVED) In a world of scarcity, particularly in this time of global health crisis

Question

In a world of scarcity, particularly in this time of global health crisis, unequal distributions are bound to happen. When are unequal distributions of healthcare resources fair and morally justified?

Expert Solution Preview

When it comes to unequal distributions of healthcare resources, there are a few different scenarios in which they can be considered fair and morally justified. For example, if someone is terminally ill and not expected to live much longer, they may be given priority for scarce resources like ventilators or experimental treatments. This is because their life expectancy is shorter and they, therefore, have less time to benefit from these resources.

Another scenario in which unequal distributions of healthcare resources can be fair and morally justified is when someone has a higher chance of surviving or recovering from an illness if they receive treatment. For example, a pregnant woman with a high-risk pregnancy may be given priority for scarce resources like hospital beds or blood transfusions. This is because her life is not only at risk but also the life of her unborn child.

Ultimately, when it comes to unequal distributions of healthcare resources, the decision of what is fair and morally justified will come down on a case-by-case basis. There are no easy answers, but the above scenarios are two examples of when such distributions could be considered fair and just.