What principle allows a patient to refuse medical treatment?

Autonomy is the principle that empowers patients to make decisions about their own medical treatment, including the right to refuse care. This concept is fundamental in healthcare as it acknowledges the individual’s capacity to act in accordance with their values and beliefs. Autonomy respects the idea that patients should have the freedom to make choices regarding their own health and well-being, which includes understanding and accepting the possible consequences of their decisions.

This principle is closely related to other concepts in healthcare, such as informed consent, which involves providing patients with all relevant information regarding their treatment options so they can make educated choices. However, autonomy specifically highlights the patient's right to steer their own course of action without coercion, ensuring their personal values and preferences are respected in the decision-making process.

When autonomy is honored, it acknowledges the patient's authority and responsibility over their own health decisions, reinforcing the importance of respecting an individual's choices, even if they refuse treatment that healthcare providers may believe is in their best interest.