Four essential principles guide healthcare professionals in the complex world of medical ethics. They help them make ethical decisions and take action. These four pillars are the foundation of ethical medical practice and ensure that ethical considerations remain at the forefront of healthcare.
- Beneficence: Promoting Good
Beneficence is the deep commitment to improving the well-being of patients. It is a responsibility to actively search for and provide interventions which improve health outcomes.
Health care practitioners use evidence-based treatment to alleviate symptoms, restore health, and reduce suffering. The principle of beneficence emphasises the importance of acting with empathy and dedication.
Doctors adhere to the beneficence principle when they prescribe treatments backed up by medical evidence. When doctors recommend medication or therapy that is proven to relieve a patient’s discomfort or improve their life quality, they are demonstrating their commitment to their well-being.
- Non-Maleficence: Do no harm
Non-Maleficence emphasises the obligation to never harm patients. This principle emphasises the importance to maintain competence and ensure that benefits outweigh any potential risks.
This requires a cautious and vigilant approach from healthcare professionals. In valuing non-maleficence, practitioners maintain the foundations of trust and ethical responsibilities, and guard against actions that could compromise patient safety.
Imagine that a patient has a condition which requires a potentially dangerous surgical procedure. The healthcare team carefully assesses both the risks and the benefits to ensure that the potential harm of the intervention does not outweigh the potential benefits.
- Justice: Fair Distribution
In the healthcare industry, justice is synonymous with fairness. It calls for the fair distribution of resources and treatments. This pillar promotes an egalitarian healthcare system, without bias or prejudice.
Health inequalities are scrutinised and steps taken to close gaps. This ensures that every patient receives the appropriate care regardless of their social status or background.
Imagine a situation where a medical facility ensures that all patients can access advanced therapies or treatments, regardless of their socioeconomic status. This commitment to fairness adheres to justice. To find out more about the role of Film Medics, visit Outdoor Medical Solutions.
The institution addresses inequalities in health by providing equal opportunity for all patients, to receive the best care available, regardless of background.
- Autonomy: The Patient’s Choice
The autonomy of patients gives them the right to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare journey. Healthcare professionals are facilitators who provide comprehensive information and guidance, based on their medical expertise.
Patients are encouraged to express their preferences, to make choices that align with their values and to actively participate in the care plan. This principle respects individuality of patients and encourages a collaborative relationship between doctor and patient where decisions are agreed upon.
