This paper briefly analyses the Brazilian Code of Medical Ethics and also suggests a Code of Medical Ethics Principles, that would not be a code of rules but rather a code of principles. Although principles are more vaguer abstract than rules, they are more stable and less limited. Considering also that health is defined as a biopsychosocial well being and not only as the absence of illness, this paper purposes a code of principles for the health area, taking into account the principles of Bioethics: respect for the human being, the individual's freedom and autonomy, benefits related to quality of life and the usefulness of medical acts.

A Code of Medical Ethics Principles, rather than rules, is suggested, considering human dignity, individual freedom, and the quality of life benefits of medical acts.

De um código de ética médica para um código de bioética

Key Takeaway: A Code of Medical Ethics Principles, rather than rules, is suggested, considering human dignity, individual freedom, and the quality of life benefits of medical acts.