Healthcare ethics refers to the principles and values that guide decision-making in medical practice and research. It involves considerations of patient rights, confidentiality, informed consent, and the equitable distribution of resources. Healthcare professionals must navigate complex situations where moral dilemmas arise, ensuring that their actions align with ethical standards. Key concepts in healthcare ethics include autonomy, which emphasizes a patient's right to make informed choices about their treatment, and beneficence, which focuses on promoting the well-being of patients. These principles help healthcare providers balance their responsibilities to patients, society, and the medical profession.