Confidentiality in healthcare is ethically supported by which concept?

Confidentiality in healthcare is fundamentally rooted in the ethical principles of beneficence, nonmaleficence, and fidelity, which collectively reinforce the importance of safeguarding patient information.

Beneficence refers to the obligation to act in the best interest of the patient, promoting their well-being and ensuring they receive appropriate care. By maintaining confidentiality, healthcare providers build trust, allowing patients to feel secure in sharing sensitive information necessary for effective treatment.

Nonmaleficence, the principle of “do no harm,” emphasizes the importance of preventing harm to patients. Breaching confidentiality can lead to psychological or social consequences for patients, such as loss of trust, anxiety, or discrimination. Upholding confidentiality helps protect patients from these potential harms.

Fidelity relates to the commitment healthcare providers have to their promises and agreements, including the assurance that patient information will remain private. Upholding confidentiality is a key element of this trustful relationship, as patients need to know that their personal information is secure for them to seek care without fear.

Thus, all three concepts contribute to the ethical foundation that supports confidentiality in healthcare.