Abstract

Definition of the problem: This article starts with a conceptual and factual discussion on the economic background of rationing in health care. The author tries to explain what rationing in health care means and how this problem can be estimated ethically. Rationing is defined as: the allocation and distribution of scarce goods in health care and of medical and nursing services under the condition that demand isgreater than supply. Arguments and conclusion: This definition gives the opportunity, to prove whether rationing meets ethical criteria of justice concerning the allocation and distribution of basic goods. In order to ensure a human supply of necessary medical and nursing services, the author promotes an ethical reflection in terms of a theory of justice