Which term describes the ethical and legal responsibilities regarding patient information?

The term that best describes the ethical and legal responsibilities regarding patient information is patient confidentiality. This concept refers to the obligation of healthcare providers to protect the privacy of patient information and ensure that any personal health details are kept secure and disclosed only to authorized individuals. Patient confidentiality is fundamental in maintaining trust between patients and healthcare providers, as it reassures patients that their sensitive information will not be shared without consent.

In the context of ethical and legal responsibilities, patient confidentiality is critical for compliance with regulations such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which sets national standards for the protection of individuals' medical records and other personal health information. By upholding patient confidentiality, medical professionals not only adhere to legal requirements but also uphold ethical principles of respect and autonomy, ensuring patients feel safe to share vital health information needed for their care.