Clinical Ethics and accompanying research have developed into a very dynamic field. Pioneer work, innovative projects, implementation of clinical ethics, evaluation and research interact and create synergies. At the same time, their start and development is often a response to ethical challenges in patient care, and the implementation of clinical ethics may require great stamina and courage from various sides. Difficult political or social circumstances of health care systems may contribute to these challenges.

The new Hans Joachim Schwager Award is dedicated to encourage individuals and groups to engage in clinical ethics and communicate their experiences, achievements and difficulties in clinical ethics to a larger audience. Its major goal is to support practitioners who have implemented ethical consultation in healthcare facilities.