Which of the following scenarios exemplifies beneficence in healthcare?

Beneficence in healthcare refers to the ethical principle of acting in the best interest of the patient, promoting their well-being, and taking actions that benefit them. The scenario where a new therapeutic approach is offered for better patient recovery exemplifies beneficence because it directly aims to improve the patient’s health outcomes. This proactive approach is oriented towards enhancing recovery and optimizing the patient’s quality of life, demonstrating a commitment to doing good for the patient.

In contrast, scenarios such as refusing treatment due to lack of insurance highlight systemic barriers to care rather than actions that benefit the patient. Providing treatment with uncertain outcomes could lead to harm or lack of improvement without clear justification, while concealing important information undermines patient autonomy and can lead to decisions that do not align with patient interests, moving away from the beneficent focus on promoting overall well-being.