Ethics & Law · single question
A dentist refuses to treat a patient based on their SEXUAL PREFERENCES. Which ethical principle is being violated?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Justice
Justice (A). Justice in bioethics/dental ethics refers to FAIRNESS — equal access to care, non-discrimination, fair treatment of all patients. Refusing treatment based on sexual orientation, race, gender, religion, or other personal characteristics violates the principle of justice.
ADA Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct:
• Justice: treat all patients fairly regardless of their personal characteristics, including sexual orientation.
• Autonomy (B): patient's right to make their own decisions — not applicable here (the dentist is making the refusal).
• Veracity (C): truthfulness — not applicable.
• Only exceptions to patient selection: patients who cannot be treated safely within the dentist's scope, or when referred care is more appropriate.
• Refusing care for ANY discriminatory reason = ethics violation AND potentially illegal discrimination.
ADA Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct:
• Justice: treat all patients fairly regardless of their personal characteristics, including sexual orientation.
• Autonomy (B): patient's right to make their own decisions — not applicable here (the dentist is making the refusal).
• Veracity (C): truthfulness — not applicable.
• Only exceptions to patient selection: patients who cannot be treated safely within the dentist's scope, or when referred care is more appropriate.
• Refusing care for ANY discriminatory reason = ethics violation AND potentially illegal discrimination.