Which key ethical principle involves addressing fairness in the distribution of healthcare resources?

The key ethical principle that focuses on fairness in the distribution of healthcare resources is justice. This principle emphasizes that individuals should have equitable access to care, treatments, and resources regardless of varying social, economic, or personal circumstances. Justice seeks to ensure that healthcare services are distributed fairly and can often involve addressing disparities in access and outcomes among different populations.

The relevance of the other ethical principles in this context is important to understand, but they do not directly address the notion of fairness and equity in resource allocation. Autonomy pertains to the right of individuals to make informed decisions about their own healthcare. Beneficence involves acting in the best interest of patients, promoting their well-being, while non-maleficence emphasizes the need to avoid harm to patients. All these principles are vital to ethical healthcare practice, but when it comes specifically to issues of fairness and equity, justice is the guiding principle.