The medical community in Siena gathered for a poignant blend of tradition and future-facing policy during the recent “Giornata del medico e dell’odontoiatra” (Doctor and Dentist Day). Held at the historic Villa Ermellina, the event served as the official gateway for a new generation of healthcare providers and a moment of reflection for those who have dedicated decades to the healing arts.
The highlight of the ceremony was the giuramento di Ippocrate (Hippocratic Oath), recited by 108 new graduates in medicine and dentistry. This solemn rite marks the transition from academic study to professional practice, emphasizing the ethical obligations and the commitment to patient care that define the medical profession.
Beyond the induction of new doctors, the event addressed the evolving landscape of modern medicine. From the integration of artificial intelligence in clinical practice to a renewed institutional commitment to global peace, the gathering underscored that being a physician in 2026 requires a balance of technological proficiency and steadfast humanitarian values.
The day was too marked by a significant demographic shift in the profession, with 61 women among the new cohort of physicians taking the oath—a number that continues to rise annually, reflecting a broader trend in medical education and workforce composition.
Honoring Decades of Service: The Caduceus Awards
A central tradition of the day was the presentation of the Caduceus, the symbolic staff and serpents of the medical profession, to physicians celebrating major milestones since their graduation. These awards recognize the enduring commitment of practitioners who have navigated the complexities of healthcare over several decades.
The highest honors were reserved for those reaching 70 years of professional standing. Dr. Paolo Goretti and Dr. Madda Maggi were recognized for their seven decades of service, representing a rare level of lifelong dedication to the field. The ceremony honored the breadth of experience within the local medical community through the distribution of gold and silver awards: 48 Gold Caducei were awarded for 50 years of service, and 63 Silver Caducei were presented for 25 years since graduation.
These accolades serve as a bridge between the veteran physicians and the newest inductees. Among the 108 new doctors, the youngest members of the incoming class were identified as Dr. Bianca Antonelli and Dr. Oleksii Borzakovskyi, symbolizing the continuous renewal of the medical workforce in Siena.
The ‘Medici e Pace’ Manifesto and Ethical Responsibility
The event transcended professional celebration to address the role of physicians in a volatile global climate. A pivotal moment of the day was the official presentation of the “Manifesto Medici e Pace” (Doctors and Peace Manifesto), which was approved by the Central Committee of the National Federation of the Orders of Surgeons and Dentists.
Roberto Monaco, President of the Order of Surgeons and Dentists of the Province of Siena, framed the manifesto as a call to action for the medical community to recognize their influence beyond the clinic. During his address to the new physicians, Monaco stated: “Essere medici oggi significa assumersi una responsabilità storica, costituzionale ed europea: custodire i diritti, sollevare la sofferenza, difendere la dignità umana, costruire pace ogni giorno.”
This manifesto posits that the duty of a physician is not merely the treatment of disease but the active defense of human dignity and the promotion of peace. By aligning the medical profession with these broader humanitarian goals, the Order emphasizes that healthcare is inextricably linked to the stability and rights of the populations it serves.
Innovation and the Role of Artificial Intelligence
Whereas the ceremony was rooted in ancient tradition, the intellectual discourse of the day focused heavily on the future of healthcare delivery. The program included a specialized presentation by engineer Giacomo Gensini, titled “L’intelligenza artificiale: strumento per la formazione e per la pratica clinica” (Artificial Intelligence: A Tool for Training and Clinical Practice).
The discussion highlighted how AI is transitioning from a theoretical concept to a practical instrument in the medical toolkit. The focus remained on AI as a supportive mechanism—enhancing the precision of diagnostics and the efficiency of physician training—rather than a replacement for the human judgment and empathy central to the Hippocratic tradition.
This integration of technology is particularly relevant for the 108 new doctors entering a workforce where digital health and AI-driven analytics are becoming standard components of patient management and continuing medical education.
Key Takeaways from the Event
- New Professionals: 108 new surgeons and dentists entered the profession, including 61 women.
- Career Milestones: Recognition for 25, 50, and 70 years of service, with Dr. Paolo Goretti and Dr. Madda Maggi reaching the 70-year mark.
- Ethical Framework: Launch of the “Medici e Pace” manifesto, emphasizing the physician’s role in defending human dignity and peace.
- Technological Shift: Integration of AI as a primary tool for both medical education and clinical application.
The ceremony at Villa Ermellina concludes this cycle of professional induction, leaving the new physicians to initiate their practice under the dual guidance of the ancient Hippocratic Oath and the modern imperatives of technological innovation and global peace. As these 108 doctors integrate into the healthcare system, the focus now shifts to their practical application of these ethics in daily clinical care.
We invite our readers to share their thoughts on the intersection of medical ethics and AI in the comments below.