Informed Consent
Every time that a doctor performs a medical procedure on you, you must give him or her informed consent before any action is legally allowed to be taken. Informed consent is a phrase referring to an exchange of information and permissions between a physician and a patient. The doctor provides the patient with all pertinent information regarding his or her condition, treatment necessary, and risks associated with the treatment. The patient responds with a statement of his or her understanding of the situation and either acceptance or denial of the treatment.
Facets of Informed Consent
Typically, there are certain items that are presented to the patient in an informed consent form. The patient is asked to review the entire document, indicate his or her understanding of the circumstances at hand, and either give or refuse consent to the doctor for treatment. The following elements are included in informed consent forms:
- Explanation of the medical condition
- Explanation of the treatment and its intended purpose
- Alternative treatments available, as well as their risks and benefits
- Risks associated with the treatment
- Consequences of refusal to accept treatment
The patient must have reasonable decision-making capacity in order for informed consent to be given. If the patient lacks the ability to comprehend the situation, then family members or court-appointed officials (guardians) may make the choice instead.
Contact Us
If you would like to learn more about informed consent, then the Pennsylvania medical malpractice lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. can help you. Contact our offices today at 610-667-7511 to schedule a consultation with one of our qualified attorneys to discuss this topic.