What ethical considerations are involved when a patient requests recommendations for a new general dentist from a specialist?

摘要

Section 1, Principle of Patient Autonomy ("self-governance"), states that the dentist "has a duty to respect the patient's rights to self-determination and confidentiality."1 Section 3, Principle of Beneficence ("do good"), states that the dentist "has a duty to promote the patient's welfare."1 This principle states further that "[t]he most important aspect of this obligation is the competent and timely delivery of dental care within the hounds of clinical circumstances presented by the patient, with due consideration being given to the needs, desires and values of the patient."