When presenting treatment options to a patient, what is expected from a fiduciary perspective?

• A. Only present the physician's preferred option
• B. Provide full disclosure of all reasonable options
• C. Present only the lowest-cost option
• D. Withhold options unless requested

Answer: (B)

From a fiduciary perspective, clinicians have a duty to act in the patient’s best interest by presenting all reasonable treatment options, along with their benefits, risks, and alternatives, and the relevant costs. This supports informed consent and shared decision making, letting patients weigh how each option aligns with their values, goals, and circumstances. The clinician should reveal uncertainties and avoid steering toward a single preferred option, which helps protect autonomy and reduces potential conflicts of interest.

Offering only the physician’s preferred option biases the patient and undermines autonomy. Focusing solely on the lowest-cost option may compromise effectiveness or suitability. Withholding options unless asked fails to meet the standard of informed consent and patient-centered care.