What is the application of ethical principles to the medical field known as?

The application of ethical principles to the medical field is known as Biomedical Ethics. This term specifically refers to the moral issues and dilemmas arising in the context of medical and biological sciences. Biomedical ethics addresses a range of topics including informed consent, patient autonomy, confidentiality, and the ethical implications of new technologies and medical treatments.

The focus on ethical principles within this domain allows healthcare professionals and advocates to navigate complex issues that can impact patient care and public health. This discipline draws from various philosophical traditions to provide a framework for decision-making in clinical practice and research, ensuring that patients' rights and dignity are upheld while promoting the welfare of individuals and communities.

Other options, while related to healthcare, do not specifically capture the concept of applying ethical principles to the nuances of medical practice. Health Ethics can encompass a broader range of topics beyond just the medical field, Medical Law relates more to legal standards and regulations rather than ethical guidelines, and Health Policy deals with overarching strategies and decisions about health care systems and practices rather than the ethical implications of specific medical actions.