Reconstructing legal protection for the medical profession in the face of medical disputes during the COVID-19 pandemic from the dignified justice perspective

BACKGROUND: Healthcare involves various stakeholders, including hospitals, healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and others, as well as patients. The direct relationship typically occurs between doctors and patients. In carrying out their duties, doctors always adhere to standard operating procedures, medical records, and informed consent. The COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia has led to a surge in the number of COVID-19 patients requiring treatment by doctors. On the one hand, doctors and other healthcare professionals face numerous challenges in providing healthcare services, potentially failing to ensure legal certainty for them. AIM: This study aimed to reconstruct legal protection for the medical profession in medical disputes during the COVID-19 pandemic from a Dignified Justice perspective. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This research is a legal study based on the Dignified Justice Theory to understand the concept of legal protection for healthcare professionals, particularly doctors, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research methodology includes a legislative, conceptual, and case approach. RESULTS: The research results are subsequently analyzed. Based on the research, it is evident that legal protection is derived from regulations related to recognition, protection of rights, and other relevant legal provisions. Legal protection for the medical profession during the COVID-19 pandemic is also framed within the framework of Pancasila, integrated with the Dignified Justice Theory. CONCLUSION: Legal protection for doctors in the COVID-19 rapid response task force is evident because healthcare professionals have received legal protection through supervision and guidance provided by local governments and their employing institutions in handling COVID-19.