What term describes the practice of informing a patient of their diagnosis honestly?

The practice of informing a patient of their diagnosis honestly is referred to as truth-telling. This concept is fundamental in medical ethics, as it emphasizes the importance of transparency in the doctor-patient relationship. When healthcare providers communicate openly and truthfully about a patient's condition, it fosters trust and empowers patients to make informed decisions regarding their care.

Truth-telling is not only about conveying accurate medical information; it also involves addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of a diagnosis. Being honest helps patients to understand their health status, the available treatment options, and the potential outcomes, which is crucial for effective healthcare and informed consent.

Other concepts such as benevolence relate to acting in the patient's best interest, but they may not necessarily require complete honesty regarding a diagnosis. Deception, on the other hand, involves intentionally misleading the patient, which is contrary to ethical practices in patient care. Confidentiality pertains to the privacy of patient information, emphasizing the protection of sensitive data rather than the act of honest communication about diagnoses.