What role does the "American Medical Association" (AMA) play in medical ethics?

The American Medical Association (AMA) plays a crucial role in the realm of medical ethics primarily by establishing guidelines on ethical standards for physicians. This includes formulating foundational principles that guide medical practice, promote high standards of integrity, and ensure ethical patient care. The AMA's Code of Medical Ethics is a well-respected framework that addresses various dilemmas and scenarios healthcare professionals may encounter, helping physicians navigate complex moral decisions in their practice.

By setting these ethical standards, the AMA influences the behavior and decision-making of physicians, encouraging adherence to principles such as patient confidentiality, informed consent, and professional integrity. This guidance is fundamental for maintaining trust and accountability within the medical profession, which ultimately benefits patients and society as a whole.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the main role of the AMA: it does not provide legal representation, does not function as a regulatory body for all healthcare professionals, and it does not offer malpractice insurance; these activities are governed by different organizations or entities within the healthcare system. Thus, the answer regarding the establishment of ethical guidelines emphasizes the AMA's primary contribution to the field of medical ethics.