Which ethical principles are involved when considering withholding diagnostic testing due to cost?

• A. Equity, Patient Autonomy, Beneficence, Non-Maleficence
• B. Privacy and Confidentiality
• C. Justice and Reciprocity Only
• D. Respect for Authority and Obedience

Answer: (B)

The situation centers on protecting sensitive information in the face of financial constraints. Withholding a diagnostic test because of cost brings up concerns about privacy and confidentiality because details about a patient’s financial situation and the reasons for limiting care are sensitive and should be shared only with those who need to know. Preserving confidentiality helps maintain trust, supports patient autonomy by ensuring decisions are made with dignity and without coercion, and prevents potential stigma or discrimination tied to financial status. While other ethical principles like equity, beneficence, non-maleficence, or justice are relevant to how resources are allocated and what benefits or harms result, the scenario as described most directly implicates protecting information and keeping cost-related discussions appropriately confidential.