Which ethical principle involves honesty and truth-telling to patients?

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Veracity is the obligation to tell the truth to patients. This principle is foundational for patient autonomy because it ensures individuals have the full, accurate information they need to make informed decisions about their care. When clinicians communicate openly about diagnoses, prognoses, risks, and benefits, patients can weigh options and consent based on a genuine understanding of what to expect. Veracity also strengthens the trust and therapeutic relationship, which is essential for effective care.

In practice, honest communication should be delivered with compassion and sensitivity to the patient’s emotional state, health literacy, and preferences for information. It’s about balancing honesty with support, ensuring explanations are clear, and checking understanding, rather than withholding information or being blunt. Other ethical principles like fidelity (keeping promises), beneficence (acting in the patient’s best interest), and justice (fair treatment) are important, but they address different aspects of care; veracity specifically targets truthful communication and informed decision-making.