This study evaluates the activities of a Bioethics Unit (BU) over its first five years (2016–2020), examining its dual role in empirical research on clinical ethics, provision of ethics consultations, and education for healthcare professionals (HPs). We employed an explanatory sequential mixed-method design, using qualitative insights to contextualize initial quantitative findings. Quantitative data were extracted from the BU’s internal records and analyzed descriptively. Semi-structured interviews with 18 HPs engaged with the BU were conducted for the qualitative component, with responses analyzed using a framework approach. Quantitative findings highlighted growth in both BU-led research projects and collaborative initiatives across hospital units. Qualitative analysis identified four primary themes: motivations for engaging with the BU and collaboration types; the perceived function of the bioethicist; the influence of BU activities on HPs’ ethical reasoning and professional development; and the demand for ethics support in additional clinical settings. Overall, the combination of empirical research and traditional ethics activities within a single unit enhanced collaboration and promoted a culture of ethical reflection among HPs. The results contribute to understanding models of clinical ethics support and demonstrate the value of integrating empirical bioethics research with ethics consultation services. They also provide a foundation for establishing a multidisciplinary Clinical Ethics Committee (CEC) to strengthen ethics support in the local hospital context.
