Which ethical principle applies when a physician speaks to a patient about the benefits of CAM/IM medicine?

Which ethical principle applies when a physician speaks to a patient about the benefits of CAM/IM medicine?

• A. Beneficence
• B. Autonomy
• C. Justice
• D. Nonmaleficence

Answer: (C)

The main idea here is respecting the patient’s autonomy. When a physician discusses the benefits of CAM/IM with a patient, the physician is providing information that helps the patient make an informed choice about their care. This supports the patient’s right to decide what treatment aligns with their own values and goals, which is the essence of autonomy and informed consent. Beneficence and nonmaleficence are involved in the broader aim of promoting welfare and avoiding harm, respectively, but the act of informing and enabling a voluntary decision most directly reflects respecting the patient’s self-determination. Justice concerns fairness in distribution or treatment, not the patient‑physician decision process in this moment.

The main idea here is respecting the patient’s autonomy. When a physician discusses the benefits of CAM/IM with a patient, the physician is providing information that helps the patient make an informed choice about their care. This supports the patient’s right to decide what treatment aligns with their own values and goals, which is the essence of autonomy and informed consent. Beneficence and nonmaleficence are involved in the broader aim of promoting welfare and avoiding harm, respectively, but the act of informing and enabling a voluntary decision most directly reflects respecting the patient’s self-determination. Justice concerns fairness in distribution or treatment, not the patient‑physician decision process in this moment.