To Tell or Not? The Omission of Truth Becomes a Lie!

Abstract

Truth telling (veracity) in health care is considered as a prominent phenomenon contributing to so many other ethical obligations. The principle of truth telling can influence the right of patients and their families of getting correct information about the disease, treatment plan, and other treatment options available. This paper discusses the HCP’ s decision for beneficence of patient life and keeping patient stigmatized status confidential which creates conflict between three principles. It is believed that truth telling and disclosing correct diagnosis should be done only if there is no risk to patient s life. Ethical principles conflicting here are the beneficence, confidentiality and veracity. HCP was in confusion that weather to tell the truth by disclosing the immoral act of the patient in front of her family, which could result in losing patient’s life or keep it confidential.