Mark Borden MD | Challenges and Ethical Dilemmas in Beneficence

While the principle of beneficence is clear in its intention to do good, its application is often fraught with challenges. One of the primary dilemmas that physicians face is the tension between beneficence and patient autonomy. In modern healthcare, respect for a patient's right to make their own decisions is paramount. However, there are instances when a physician’s understanding of what is beneficial for the patient may conflict with the patient’s own wishes.

 

Dr. Borden explores this tension through examples where patients refuse life-saving treatments for personal, religious, or cultural reasons. A physician, driven by the principle of beneficence, may feel obligated to provide the treatment that they believe is in the patient's best interest. However, overriding a patient’s autonomy can lead to ethical conflicts, and in most cases, respecting a patient’s decision takes precedence, even if it may lead to outcomes that the physician views as harmful. The challenge here is finding a balance between advocating for the patient’s well-being and honoring their autonomy.



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