Explain the concept of autonomy in healthcare ethics.

The concept of autonomy in healthcare ethics centers on the right of patients to make informed decisions about their own care. This principle acknowledges the importance of individual capacity to govern one's own body and health choices, emphasizing that patients should have the freedom to make choices regarding their treatment options based on their values, beliefs, and preferences.

Autonomy is grounded in the respect for individuals as rational agents who are capable of understanding the information provided to them about their health and the potential outcomes of different treatment paths. When healthcare providers respect a patient's autonomy, they ensure that patients are fully informed about their options, the benefits and risks involved, and that they have the opportunity to participate actively in their healthcare decisions.

This principle contrasts with the other options, which, while important in their own right, do not encapsulate the essence of autonomy. For instance, the duty to do no harm relates to the principle of nonmaleficence, acting in the best interests of the patient pertains to beneficence, and protecting patient information aligns with privacy and confidentiality concerns. However, autonomy specifically focuses on the patients' rights to make their own informed choices about their healthcare, making option B the most accurate representation of this ethical principle.