Medical Error Among Arabs: Consequences and Penalties

Abstract

Medical errors have historically posed challenges to physicians, particularly in Arab civilizations before and after Islam. This study examines how different civilizations addressed medical malpractice. The research employs a historical-analytical approach, analyzing legal and ethical responses across various eras. Findings indicate that Pharaonic Egypt exempted priests from penalties, while non-priests faced execution. Mesopotamian laws varied punishments, including amputation. Maghreb civilizations imposed no sanctions due to the sacred status of temple physicians. Pre-Islamic Arabs attributed errors to fate. Islam later established legal accountability, introducing ethical and legal consequences for medical errors.