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Glossary
Bioethics Principles

What are Bioethics Principles?

Bioethics principles are fundamental ethical guidelines that govern healthcare decision-making. The four main principles—autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice—provide a framework for addressing moral dilemmas in medical care and research.

Why do bioethics principles matter?

  • Patient protection: Ensures ethical treatment and respect for rights.
  • Decision guidance: Helps resolve complex medical dilemmas.
  • Professional standards: Guides healthcare provider conduct.

The four core principles

  • Autonomy: Respecting patient self-determination.
  • Beneficence: Acting in patient's best interest.
  • Non-maleficence: Avoiding harm.
  • Justice: Fair distribution of healthcare resources.

How Solace can help

A Solace advocate can help you understand how bioethics principles apply to your care decisions, ensure your autonomy is respected, and navigate ethical conflicts with healthcare providers. They can also help access ethics committees when facing complex medical decisions.