What are examples of medical ethics?

Modern medical ethics is guided by a set of core principles that serve as the foundation for ethical decision-making in healthcare. Here's a brief explanation of each:

1. Autonomy: This principle emphasizes the right of patients to make their own decisions about their healthcare. It respects patients' right to self-determination and requires healthcare professionals to provide information and support to enable patients to make informed decisions.

2. Beneficence: The principle of beneficence emphasizes the obligation of healthcare professionals to act in the best interests of their patients. It requires them to seek to do good and to promote the well-being of patients, striving to maximize benefits and minimize harm.

3. Confidentiality: Confidentiality is the obligation of healthcare professionals to protect the privacy of patient information. It requires them to maintain the confidentiality of patient records and to only disclose information with the patient's consent or when required by law.

4. Justice: The principle of justice concerns the fair and equitable distribution of healthcare resources and the fair treatment of all individuals. It requires healthcare professionals to ensure that healthcare services are accessible to all patients regardless of factors such as race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or insurance status.

5. Non-maleficence: Non-maleficence is the principle that requires healthcare professionals to do no harm to their patients. It emphasizes the importance of avoiding actions that could cause harm or increase the risk of harm to patients.

6. Veracity: Veracity refers to the obligation of healthcare professionals to be truthful and honest in their interactions with patients. It requires them to provide accurate information to patients, to disclose relevant information about their condition and treatment options, and to avoid deception or misleading patients.

These principles collectively provide a framework for ethical decision-making in healthcare and guide healthcare professionals in navigating complex ethical dilemmas that may arise in the course of patient care.