Optimizing Value in Health Care: the trade show
Medical Ethics is currently based on the principles of respect for persons, beneficence, non-maleficence and justice. The principle of respect for persons emphasizes respect for patient autonomy - the duty to protect and foster a patient's coluntary informed choices, and truth-telling. The principle of beneficence defines the duty to promote good and act in the best interest of the patient and the health of the society. The principle of non-maleficence refers to the duty to do no harm to patients. Finally, the principle of justice must inform the physician's role as a citizen and his/her decisions on resource allocations. In facing challenges to resolve many issues in the delivery of care, the physician needs the virtues of compassion, courage and patience.