Which principle of medical ethics encompasses the idea of doing good?

The principle that encompasses the idea of doing good is beneficence. This ethical standard obligates healthcare providers to act in the best interest of their patients, promoting their well-being and taking actions that improve their health and quality of life. Beneficence goes beyond merely avoiding harm; it involves proactive measures to enhance the patient's condition, administer effective treatments, and offer support and care that contribute to overall health.

In the context of medical practice, this principle encourages practitioners to not only consider the risks and benefits of treatments but also to strive to provide interventions that will confer a positive impact on the patient’s health. It is fundamental in decision-making processes, guiding clinicians to take actions that help achieve beneficial outcomes for patients.

The other principles, while essential in their own rights, focus on different aspects of healthcare ethics. Justice addresses fairness in treatment and resource allocation, autonomy emphasizes respecting patients' rights to make their own decisions, and non-maleficence is centered on the obligation to avoid causing harm. Together, these principles provide a holistic framework for ethical medical practice, but beneficence specifically relates to the concept of actively doing good.