Define autonomy in medical ethics.

• A. Respecting the patient’s right to make their own health care decisions.
• B. Obeying physician directives as the sole consideration.
• C. The obligation to treat every patient equally.
• D. The responsibility to disclose medical errors.

Answer: (A)

Autonomy in medical ethics is about honoring a patient’s right to decide what happens to their own body and health care. It centers on self-determination: when a patient has the capacity, they should be given clear information, understand the options, and make a voluntary choice about treatment. Respecting autonomy means obtaining informed consent, consulting with the patient, and supporting their values and preferences—even if the clinician would choose differently.

This is distinct from following physician directives uncritically, which would reflect physician-centered decision making rather than empowering the patient. It also isn’t about guaranteeing equal treatment in every situation, which touches on justice and fairness, nor is it about disclosing errors alone, which relates to transparency and beneficence. Autonomy specifically focuses on the patient’s authority to decide what is done with their own health care.