Which term describes the ethical principle related to fairness in distributing healthcare resources?

• A. Autonomy
• B. Beneficence
• C. Nonmaleficence
• D. Justice

Answer: (D)

Justice governs how resources are shared, ensuring fairness and equity in access to care. It asks that the distribution of scarce healthcare resources—like ICU beds, organs, or vaccines—be just, non-discriminatory, and guided by need or appropriate criteria rather than status, wealth, or power. This principle differs from autonomy, which emphasizes a patient’s right to make their own choices; beneficence, which focuses on acting in a patient’s best interests; and nonmaleficence, which means avoiding harm. In practice, justice informs policies and clinical decisions to promote impartiality, such as establishing clear triage criteria or ensuring universal access, so that everyone has a fair opportunity to receive care.