What principle of bioethics emphasizes the patient's right to make their own healthcare decisions?

The principle of bioethics that emphasizes the patient's right to make their own healthcare decisions is autonomy. Autonomy is centered on the belief that individuals have the right to govern themselves and make choices regarding their own lives and bodies, including decisions related to their medical care. This principle recognizes the importance of informed consent and the need for healthcare providers to respect a patient's preferences and values when it comes to treatment options.

In practice, respecting a patient's autonomy involves ensuring that they are fully informed about their medical condition, the risks and benefits of various treatment options, and allowing them to make choices that align with their personal beliefs and circumstances. This is crucial for fostering a respectful and ethical patient-provider relationship, where individuals feel empowered to actively participate in their healthcare decisions.